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Use tests to identify when to isolate
You now have more places to get a COVID-19 test in Berkeley to help more quickly identify whether you or your loved ones should isolate and quarantine to stop the virus’ spread.
Our first pop-up sites will rotate between downtown locations as well as sites in south and west Berkeley.
By increasing options, we hope more people will get tested – especially as the current surge shows the virus is spreading more than ever.
- Tuesday, January 19, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston
- Wednesday, January 20, Berkeley Bowl West, 920 Heinz Ave.
- Thursday January 21, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston
- Tuesday January 26, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston
- Wednesday, January 27, Meyer Sound, 1025 Ashby Ave. Parking Lot
- Thursday, January 28, Harold Way, between Kittredge and Allston
People can make an appointment online. These tests are performed by Optum, a provider funded by the state and coordinated by the City.
Use tests and symptom recognition as one tool to protect yourself and our community
Tests and recognition of COVID-19 symptoms are crucial to stopping the spread.
Anyone who tests positive, has been told by a medical provider that they are presumed positive, has COVID-19 symptoms or has symptoms after being exposed to a test-positive case within the past two weeks should take immediate action to isolate. Those who are exposed should quarantine.
Negative tests don’t mean you’re not infected
People should not use a negative test to gather or loosen the public health actions that are essential to keeping our community safe during this unprecedented surge.
A single negative test result does not mean a person is not infected with the virus. People may unknowingly spread the virus if they don't quarantine after an exposure. Even if testing negative early, they may become positive at a later point.
Last Friday, the FDA issued a safety message about "false negatives" in testing from Curative, a test vendor used around the region and in Berkeley. The City has reached out to the company and the state to get more information.
If anyone is concerned about a particular test approach, we offer other options as a City and many more are available through the region or through their health care providers. We recommend that people talk to their doctor about individual diagnostic decisions.
Protect yourself before a test is needed
Protective actions – such as staying home, wearing face coverings, avoiding crowds and keeping six feet from those not in your household – are essential because the virus may not be detected by any test for two weeks.
Get tested. You’ll help protect yourself, your family and our community.
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