COVID-19 test appointments in high demand as travel increases – KIRO 7 News Seattle

If you are vaccinated and plan to travel outside of the US, you may need to take a COVID-19 test. But the desire for a vacation leads to problems at the few test locations.

If you need a test, don’t wait until the last minute to book an appointment. Test sites like the one at Bellevue College feel the need when travel increases.

To visit Canada, anyone 5 years or older must have a positive COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arrival. Canada is one of several countries that have this requirement.

KIRO 7 spoke to a Canadian woman who said backups at test sites are preventing her from coming home.

“I may have to stay here for a day or two if I have to, but I will see if I can take another test and then may be able to get my results for the next few hours,” said Jasmeet Tchetcy.

But not every test will. In most cases, you’ll need an acceptable molecular test instead of an antigen test that has been more common in the past.

Under these criteria, a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) or NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification) or rapid test would be acceptable. The cheapest molecular rapid test on the Internet costs around $ 150. A PCR test that returns results within an hour of being run costs about $ 300.

Some insurance plans can cover such tests, but you need to pay in advance first.

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