Residents should continue to follow public health recommendations to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As of February 2022, Ward 5 still has the second-highest number of reported infection rates in D.C. Our continued vigilance is critical to keeping everyone safe. Please refer to the resources on this page to learn what you can do to protect yourself and our community, for resources to help residents and businesses weather this difficult time, and for information on COVID-19 tests, masks, vaccines, and boosters.

Resources + Information

COVID-19 Tests + Masks

The District Government offers free COVID-19 testing options and KN95 masks for residents. Please read below for more.

COVID-19 Testing

The District offers a number of options for D.C. residents to get tested, including in-person and take-home tests. To find out where you can get tested or pick up a test, please click here.

At-Home Testing

• Ready Responders: For at-home, on-demand care and COVID-19 testing, call (202) 602-0814. Ready is open 8am to 8pm, seven days per week, and serves all eight Wards. Ready is currently offering rapid antigen testing only, with results in 15 minutes. If you require a PCR test, please utilize another testing option.

• Pixel by LabCorp: Home test kits are available to be delivered to your door. Costs may vary depending upon your insurance.

• Safeway Pharmacy: Safeway Pharmacies offer COVID-19 at-home tests.

• Walgreens Pharmacy: Walgreens Pharmacies offer COVID-19 at-home tests. Cost may vary depending upon your insurance.

Free At-Home Tests via the Federal Government

Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days. Click here to learn more and to order your tests.

Vaccine FAQs

A viral test will tell you if you are infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, using samples that come from your nose or mouth. There are two types of viral tests: rapid tests (e.g., antigen tests) and laboratory tests (e.g, PCR tests). You can learn more about these tests here.

If you test positive, you should isolate and wear a well-fitting mask if you must be around others, inform your healthcare provider, and inform any close contacts. If you are a healthcare provider, follow CDC guidance for healthcare providers.

COVID-19 testing is one of many risk-reduction measures, along with vaccination, masking, and physical distancing, that protect you and others by reducing the chances of spreading COVID-19.

COVID-19 Vaccines + Booster Shots

Vaccines

A number of locations offer options for D.C. residents to get vaccinated, including walk-up sites and appointment-only locations. To find out where you can get vaccinated, please click here.

At-Home Vaccinations

Can't leave your home? Call 1-855-363-0333 and the District will help arrange to have someone come to you to give you a vaccine! This service is available for residents ages 5 and up.

Booster Shots

To find out where you can receive a COVID-19 vaccine or booster shot, please visit https://www.vaccines.gov/.

Free Transportation to Vaccination and Booster Appointments for Seniors Ages 65+

The District’s Medicaid Managed Care Organizations provide free transportation to and from all medically necessary covered services and appointments.  Call one of the following services to schedule transportation:

• AmeriHealth Caritas DC | Call 1-800-315-3485. Rides available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

• CareFirst Community Health Plan DC | Call MTM1 at 1-855-824-5693. Rides available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

• Health Services for Children with Special Needs | Call SET Transportation at 1-866-991-5433

• MedStar Family Choice DC | Call 1-866-201-9974

Vaccine FAQs

Do they work? Are they safe? Who can get them? You can find answers to these questions, and more, here and here. Also be sure to check out the graphic below for an explanation of how the vaccines work. If you have more questions, please consult your healthcare provider, who may be able to assist you.

Preventing the Spread of COVID-19