Rapid COVID-19 PCR Tests Now Available In Salem

SALEM, MA — North Shore residents in need of a COVID-19 PCR test with immediate results can now get them in Salem.

The city said on Wednesday that the Curative mobile testing site at Riley Plaza will now offer the real-time nasal swab testing that has generally taken 24 to 48 hours to receive results from since the tests became available two years ago.

These tests — unlike most at the Salem public sites since wide testing began in August 2020 — do come at a cost with a $135 self-pay fee required. Those who are looking for testing can sign up here.

Real-time PCR testing is only available during certain hours. Tests will be conducted from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays, and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.

These immediate tests can be useful when the higher sensitivity of a PCR test is necessary, but results are needed in real time because of travel and other reasons.

Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)