AdventHealth offering rapid COVID tests at Orlando airport
For the first time, rapid-result testing for COVID-19 is being offered inside the main terminal at Orlando International Airport, officials announced Friday — although the program won’t meet requirements for incoming international travelers that take effect later this month.
The testing, offered by AdventHealth, is located inside the main terminal’s atrium across from the security checkpoint. The antigen test produces results in about 15 minutes.
“While much attention has been on the vaccine rollout, testing remains an important factor in keeping ourselves, our loved ones and our neighbors safe,” said Dr. Scott Brady, CEO of AdventHealth Centra Care.
The testing is open to anyone, and appointments are available but not required. For now, the site will operate Thursdays through Mondays only from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The cost for the test is $65 and must be paid on-site.
“This meets a demand we’ve had from our passengers,” said OIA spokesman Rod Johnson. Some travelers want reassurance they won’t spread the virus, while others are hoping to avoid quarantine requirements at their destination, he said.
In December, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board approved a plan to offer the testing clinic as part of a six-month trial program with AdventHealth.
But international travelers facing a new COVID test requirement by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — which starts Jan. 26 — will need to provide documentation of a negative test within three calendar days before they depart for Orlando or other U.S. destinations. Anyone unable to produce the documentation will not be allowed to board.
The new OIA testing is separate from AdventHealth’s recently opened vaccination site outside the airport. All appointments for that site are currently booked, and walk-ins are not accepted.
For a full list of COVID tests sites, go to orlandosentinel.com/coronavirusmobiletesting.
