Oneida County Distributing Free COVID-19 Test Kits to Residents

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the county will be distributing free COVID-19 test kits to residents this weekend at its Department of Public Works garage locations in Barneveld, Oriskany and Taberg.

“Aside from vaccinations, testing is our best weapon against the spread of COVID-19,” Picente said. “Oneida County is increasing its testing capacity by conducting free weekly PCR testing at Griffiss International Airport and by distributing free rapid home tests. These home test kits are a useful tool in helping to identify positive cases and in ensuring that those individuals don’t further the spread of this virus.”

The free test kits will be given out from 9 a.m. to noon on Jan. 8 in a drive-thru format. Test kits will be limited to one per person while supplies last. The distribution will take place at the following county facilities:

• Oneida County DPW, 8515 State Route 28, Barneveld
• Oneida County DPW, 5999 Judd Road, Oriskany
• Oneida County DPW, 4260 Lee Center Taberg Road, Taberg

Approximately 3,000 test kits are expected to be distributed on Jan. 8. Oneida County received 10,000 kits from New York State which it has been distributing by request to local municipalities. Oneida County has also given test kits to The Center in Utica for distribution to the refugee population it serves.

The county will be announcing more public test kit distributions events in the near future.

Anyone who tests positive using a home kit is required to report the result to the Oneida County Health Department. That can be done by visiting https://lfweb.ocgov.net/Forms/COVIDTestResults or by calling 315-798-5431.

If you do test positive on a home kit, you should isolate immediately and then confirm the result by scheduling a PCR test.