COVID-19 Testing in PEI

Be prepared. Pick up a rapid antigen test (self-test kit) free of charge at any of the following locations: 

• all Access PEI locations
• all provincial public library locations
• all Provincial Visitor Information and Destination Centres (check website for dates/hours of operation)
• all pharmacies across PEI
• numerous arenas and recreation centres 

For more information see COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests (self-test kits).

When should I test for COVID-19?

You should test for COVID-19 if you develop COVID-19 symptoms, including new or worsening cough, fever/chills, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, congestion, shortness of breath, headache, muscle aches, unusual fatigue, or loss of sense of smell or taste. 

How can I get tested for COVID-19 on PEI?

If you do not need medical attention or are not in a high-risk group: 

• take a self-test (rapid antigen test) and, if you received a negative result, repeat the test again in 48 hours using the second test in the kit.

If you can’t get a self-test kit, need non-urgent medical attention, or are at a higher risk of severe outcomes:

• contact your family doctor or nurse practitioner; contact a walk-in clinic; or, if you are registered for virtual care, contact Maple for an online assessment. 

People at higher risk of severe outcomes include:

• individuals 50 years and over
• anyone with underlying medical conditions that lead to a high risk of severe outcomes or are immune compromised
• pregnant individuals
• children younger than 5 years of age

If you are experiencing any of the following, call 911 or seek emergency services:

• experiencing discomfort or tightness in the chest;
• experiencing unusual shortness of breath;                                                          
• experiencing abdominal pain;
• experiencing prolonged and persistent headache or dizziness;
• a child has prolonged diarrhea or vomiting; or
• a baby under six months of age has a fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher.

If you aren’t certain what you should do: 

• call 811 to speak with a registered nurse or contact the Provincial Patient Navigator. 

What should I do if I test negative for COVID-19 but am still symptomatic?

If your COVID-19 test result is negative and you are still symptomatic, you should stay home until you are recovering. 

I’ve had COVID-19. Will this impact my test results?

Some people continue to test positive for several weeks after their infection. This does not mean you are still infectious.  

If you develop symptoms, stay home until your symptoms have resolved or are improving.

If it has been fewer than 60 days since you tested positive for COVID-19 or were considered to be positive for COVID-19 based on exposure history and symptoms, testing is not recommended. 

If it has been more than 60 days since you tested positive for COVID-19 or were considered to be positive for COVID-19 based on exposure history and symptoms, you can take another COVID-19 test. 

What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?

Follow the guidance for people who have tested positive for COVID-19.