Changes in testing and resources are coming in the fight against COVID-19. Testing sites are closing or making changes in the types of tests offered. More free at-home tests are available. 

“Testing continues to be an important tool for Minnesotans even as our case growth slows following the Omicron wave,” said Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm. “Our community testing network will continue to provide free testing to Minnesotans across the state to help them stay safe and prevent transmission. I’m grateful to our many partners, including the Minnesota National Guard, the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport, MnDOT, the federal government, and others for hosting and operating testing sites and making it easier for Minnesotans to access this important resource.” 

People can walk in or schedule an appointment at a testing site, or order tests through the state’s free COVID-19 Test at Home program. The state is also offering the free vaccine locator for people who have not been vaccinated. 

Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is expanding its successful program to provide Minnesotans with free COVID-19 at-home rapid testing through community-based organizations around the state. MDH is providing 347,000 rapid antigen test kits to local public health agencies, tribal health, food shelves, and MDH COVID-19 Community Coordinators to provide for free to the communities they serve throughout March. Each kit contains two tests. 

Providing free at-home rapid testing through local public health and community groups will help reduce barriers and expand testing access for Minnesotans who are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Tests also went out to schools and child care facilities. 

Get information on tests, testing sites and vaccines at https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/situation.html or call the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline: 1-833-431-2053, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sat, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.