COVID-19: Health and testing information
Everyone should be taking steps to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This page offers expert guidance on preventative measures and testing.
Free at-home test kits
At-home rapid tests are an important strategy to protect your friends and family from exposure. Help us stop the spread of COVID-19 in Boston.
The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) is pleased to offer rapid tests to Boston residents while supplies last for your use in the comfort of your own home.
Test kits are available at pickup sites in the community. You can find a site near you on our test-kit website. Please take up to one kit of two tests for each member of your household per visit.
If you test positive, inform your healthcare provider immediately. Follow their instructions, and keep them informed of your symptoms. If you have questions, please contact the Mayor’s Health Line at 617-534-5050.
Could I have COVID-19?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath. The most common method to acquire COVID-19 is through direct contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19.
However, community transmission is happening in some areas. Community transmission occurs when a virus spreads and the source is not known.
We have answers to common questions about when you should be tested for the coronavirus (COVID-19):
