More SHIELD Test Information
How much saliva does a person need to produce for a test?
You will need to provide around 2mL of saliva (not bubbles) for the sample to be processed correctly (the vials used will often have a marking noting how much saliva is needed).
How long will it take me to go through the testing process?
It usually only takes a few minutes to complete the testing.
How does the testing process work?
The test is self-administered and non-invasive. After checking in with a collection site staff member, you will receive a vial to deposit a small amount of saliva into. Then, you place the vial in a collection rack and leave the collection site.
Are you testing for anything else? Drugs, alcohol, etc.?
This question comes up a lot, but no, the covidSHIELD test only targets specific COVID-19 markers and is not able to test for other communicable disease, substances, or DNA.
Who can be tested?
Anyone can test through their SHIELD Illinois sponsor organization (employer, school, university, governmental agency or other organization) or at any one of our free SHIELD community testing sites.