Quick Digest
- As of December 22nd, 2020, there have been 222,931 positive cases of COVID-19 in Harris and Houston
- If you are experiencing symptoms or were exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should get a rapid or PCR test
- Rapid tests tend to cost between $100-$300, but additional fees may apply at emergency rooms
Houston COVID Situation Update
- The Texas Department of Health urges everyone to participate in contact tracing if you test positive for COVID-19
- You should continue to wear face masks and practice social distancing to mitigate the spread of coronavirus in Houston
- While you do not need to get a COVID test to travel to Texas, you may need to get tested to enter other states
Should I get a rapid test or PCR test?
Antigen (rapid) and PCR tests are both diagnostic tests, meaning they detect active infections of COVID-19. Generally, PCR tests are more accurate than rapid tests, but it can take up to a week to get the result from a PCR test. The results from rapid tests are typically available in less than one hour.
Therefore, if you can wait a few days to a week for results, you should get a PCR test. If you need to get results more quickly, you may want to get a rapid test. Your provider may want you to confirm a negative rapid test with a PCR test as well.
Rapid COVID testing is available in Houston at these locations
Rapid antigen tests are easily performed at several locations with a nasal swab. Results can be available in as quickly as 15 minutes and typically within the hour. Below we outline the out of pocket cost for rapid tests at several locations in Houston. If you have insurance, your provider may cover the cost of the test.
| Testing Site | Rapid Test Cost | Site Information |
|---|---|---|
| Memorial Village ER | $150 + possible additional fees | 14520 Memorial Dr # 4, Houston, TX 77079 (281) 549-2093 |
| Signature Care Emergency Center | $175 for test + additional fees | 19 Locations - check website |
| Rapid COVID Clinic | $200 for adults and $100 for children <17 - tests for COVID and flu | 3 Locations in Houston and Phoenix - see website |
| Elite Care ER | $350 + possible additional fees | 2500 Rice Blvd., Houston, TX 77005 (713) 527-4400 |
| CVS Minute Clinic | $139 | 1003 Richmond Avenue Houston, TX 77006 View other nearby clinics on website |
PCR COVID testing is available in Houston at these locations
PCR tests are performed by doing a nasal swab or saliva sample. Results can take up to 5-7 days if laboratories are busy. Below we outline some testing locations and costs for PCR tests in Houston. You may also be able to register for a test through this site.
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| Testing Site | PCR Test Cost | Site Information |
|---|---|---|
| Memorial Village ER | $150 + possible additional fees | 14520 Memorial Dr # 4, Houston, TX 77079 (281) 549-2093 |
| Signature Care Emergency Center | $175 for test + additional fees | 19 Locations - check website |
| Elite Care ER | Must inquire | 2500 Rice Blvd., Houston, TX 77005 (713) 527-4400 |
| Aramco Services Company | Free | 9009 W. Loop South 832-393-4220 Prescreening application |
| Houston Community College - North Forest | Free | 6010 Little York Rd Registration |
| Southwest Multi-Service Center | Free | 6400 High Star Dr Registration |
| Minute Maid Park, Lot C | Free | 2208 Preston St |
Additional locations available here.
Healthcare Can Be Confusing, Here Are More Resources:
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- Can my dogs get coronavirus?
- How to wash your hands properly?
- Everything you need to know about the Coronavirus
References:
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