COVID-19 testing at the DECC ending Jan. 28

The Minnesota Department of Health is scaling back on state-run COVID-19 testing facilities, and is closing more locations this week.

The last day to get a free COVID-19 at the DECC in Duluth will be Saturday, January 28. The testing location at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport will close the next day, January 29.

MDH says COVID-19 testing will continue to be available through a number of sources. The state’s at-home test ordering program continues to take its last round of orders, and Minnesotans can order those tests on MDH’s website. Minnesotans should also check with their insurance companies about their eligibility for free at-home tests at local pharmacies.

In addition, the State of Minnesota continues to operate a telehealth test-to treat program via Cue Health. After testing positive, people can use a website, mobile app or phone call to get started and be connected to a virtual consultation with a licensed clinician who will evaluate them to determine if treatment is a good option. If they are a good candidate for COVID-19 medications, the clinician can issue that prescription to the patient’s local pharmacy.

The Minnesota Department of Health continues to encourage COVID-19 testing when recommended, including when you have symptoms or if you were exposed to someone with COVID-19. Additionally, people should follow recommendations for how long to stay home and when to wear a mask if you test positive for COVID-19 as well as make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations, including the updated (bivalent) booster when you are due.