Do you have COVID or the flu? There’s a new way to check at test sites in Miami-Dade
COVID-19 test sites across Miami-Dade County are expanding their services to include flu testing, just in time for the busy holiday travel season.
People who visit COVID sites in Miami-Dade County operated by Utah-based Nomi Health, including at Tropical Park, Zoo Miami and Miami Dade College North campus, can now test simultaneously for both COVID-19 and influenza A and B.
A single nose swab will test for both respiratory illnesses, which have similar symptoms.
For people who live in the U.S. and have insurance, your policy should cover the cost of the COVID and flu test. For people who live in the U.S. and don’t have insurance, don’t worry: Your tests are free. For people who don’t live in the U.S. and don’t have insurance, you can still get tested at Nomi Health sites, but expect to pay about $75 for the COVID and flu test or about $50 for a COVID test.
The influenza testing comes as the country continues to see a busy flu season, with high levels of the virus circulating, including in Florida. Flu season this year started early and has led to more people in the hospital at levels not seen in more than a decade, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The last time flu hospitalizations have been this high was during the 2009 H1N1 swine flu pandemic.
“As we kick off the holiday season testing is as important as ever. Getting tested is the key to staying safe and healthy,” said Ron Goncalves, Florida President and General Manager for Nomi Health in a statement. “It’s critical for people who are experiencing symptoms to get tested to understand their illness and seek appropriate treatment. Nomi Health is proud to offer this service, to ensure the community stays healthy through the holidays.”
How to find a COVID site near you
To find a Nomi Health test site in Miami-Dade, use the county’s online COVID-19 test locator or visit nomihealth.com/florida to schedule an appointment. While appointments are recommended, you can also just show up. Remember, some sites are drive-thru.
What if you test negative but still feel sick?
If you feel ill but test negative, you can always take another test in 48 hours to double-check. But remember, COVID and the flu aren’t the only viruses circulating. There’s RSV and other viruses going around town that can make you sick.
