Asymptomatic Testing for COVID-19
Nova Scotians who do not have symptoms of COVID-19 can now get tested across the province. The Department of Health and Wellness has asked us to share the following message about testing with our members.
Asymptomatic testing can help Public Health detect positive cases in people who don’t have symptoms and help prevent the spread. It is an opportunity for Nova Scotians to help keep each other safe, especially as we approach the holiday season.
Just about anyone can get tested, and we especially encourage testing for people who have a lot of close contact through social activities. Asymptomatic testing is available for people who:
- do not have symptoms
- have not travelled outside the Atlantic provinces within the past 14 days
- have not visited a potential exposure location
- have not been in contact with someone who has tested positive
Here is how to get tested:
- In Central Zone, people can go to the Zatzman Sportsplex in Dartmouth for an asymptomatic test without an appointment.
- In all other zones, appointments are required and can be booked at https://covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/, choosing the asymptomatic option. Appointments can be booked until Dec. 13.
- Pop-up sites will continue in different locations around the province. Because they use rapid tests, the age limit is 16 and over at these sites.
People getting tested through this process are not required to self-isolate while waiting for their test or results. People getting tested for other reasons should review their self-isolation requirements. There is also more information about testing on the Nova Scotia Health Authority website and in the attached FAQ.
A negative test result is a good indication that a person is not able to spread the COVID-19 virus at the time of testing but it does not mean that they could not become infectious in the next few days. People who receive a negative test result must continue to follow public health measures and if they develop symptoms, immediately self-isolate and complete the COVID-19 self-assessment.
Everyone is reminded to keep their social circles small and follow public health measures including wearing masks, physical distancing, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home if they feel sick.