Fall 2022 COVID-19 Info: Where to get antigen COVID-19 tests

August 10, 2022 Andrew Bruso

This is just one of our COVID-19 updates for the fall 2022 semester.

To view a comprehensive summary of our policies, please visit this link.

In the 2022-23 academic year, SUNY New Paltz will make greater use of at-home antigen (or “rapid”) COVID-19 tests, following local health agencies in adopting this as the best approach for the current stage of pandemic management.

Antigen tests are presently widely available, affordable relative to PCR tests, and self-administered, meaning they can be kept at home and used as needed without a physician’s supervision.

Getting antigen tests on the New Paltz campus

FDA-authorized antigen tests are available on campus for students, faculty and staff.

Students may purchase antigen tests for $1 at the Snack Shack vending machine outside the Student Union.

Faculty and staff (with campus ID) can pick up a two-pack at the Mail Room in the Haggerty Administration Building basement.

Getting tests off campus

Many pharmacies and online retailers are also stocking antigen tests, and many health insurers are covering or reimbursing costs for these tests. For instance, the Empire Plan, which covers many New Paltz employees, has posted this information about offering free test kits for eligible members.

U.S. residents can also get free COVID-19 tests by mail at www.covid.gov/tests.

After you test: Uploading your results, and what to do if you test positive

The COVID-19 Profile has been updated to allow for the submission of antigen test results. Please use this link for more information about uploading your test results.

Students should contact the Health Center at (845) 257-3400 if they test positive for COVID-19.

Faculty and staff who test positive for COVID-19 are expected to notify the Office of Human Resources, Diversity & Inclusion (HRDI) so the College can support you during your mandatory isolation period.

If you have symptoms, but get a negative result with an antigen test, it is recommended that you do a second antigen test 24 hours later or take a PCR test.

Students who test negative by antigen test, but have symptoms and/or had an exposure, should contact the Health Center for advice about further testing.