COVID-19 Testing

Who Should Get Tested?

We recommend individuals get tested if they have been:

  • Exposed to someone with confirmed COVID-19 (within six feet for 15 minutes or more, regardless of mask use),
  • Experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, and/or 
  • Referred to get tested by their healthcare provider or the health department.

COVID-19 Testing Locations

The Nashua Division of Public Health and Community Services (DPHCS) does not offer COVID-19 testing clinics.

Free COVID-19 Testing

The Federal Government has contracted with Walgreens and Rite Aid to offer COVID-19 tests at no cost for individuals without insurance who have symptoms of COVID-19. Visit their websites or call to learn more about the program and schedule a test.

Individuals who do not have insurance or have a health insurance plan that does not fully cover the cost of tests may also have testing paid for by a New Hampshire Limited COVID-19 Testing Benefit. To apply online for the Testing Benefit, visit NH EASY and click on “COVID-19 Testing”.

Additional Testing Locations

About COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 testing is critical to measure the spread of this disease within our community and assist our regional response efforts.

Types of Testing

The different types of tests serve different purposes and have different limitations. Knowing the facts about these tests is essential to making decisions that are best for our public’s health. 

  • PCR Testing: A viral COVID-19 test tells you if you have a current infection using an oral or nasal swab. The PCR test is for persons with or without symptoms of COVID-19.
  • Rapid Antigen Testing: A rapid COVID-19 test is an antigen test that can quickly detect the presence of current infection. The rapid antigen test is for persons with symptoms and within a specific timeframe after onset of symptoms. Abbott BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 rapid tests detect the presence of protein antigens from SARS-CoV-2 within the first seven days of symptom onset. 

Test Results

Stay home (from work, school, etc.) if you or someone in your household is waiting for a COVID-19 test result due to symptoms of COVID-19 or a known exposure. Whether you test positive or negative for COVID-19, no matter the type of test, please continue to take preventive measures to protect yourself and others.

If you test positive for COVID-19:

Stay home and follow this isolation guidance. Know what protective steps to take if you are sick or caring for someone. 

If you test negative for COVID-19:

You did not have COVID-19 at the time of testing. This result does not mean that you are immune from COVID-19 in the future. Practice protective measures to reduce your risk.

Nashua Testing Data

To learn more about COVID-19 testing data, visit the Greater Nashua Data Dashboard hosted on LiveStories.

For More Information


Nashua COVID-19 Hotline: 603-589-3456