Getting a coronavirus test and contact tracing

Since June, the Dutch government has set-up various locations throughout the Netherlands for anyone who experience coronavirus symptoms to get a test for free. The test itself is a simple procedure that only takes a few minutes and the results will be available within one to two days. Getting tested will help curb the spread of the virus. Here's what you need to know about getting the coronavirus test.

When to get tested

You should only get a test if you have one or more symptoms of coronavirus, such as:

• cold-like symptoms
• a stuffy nose
• a runny nose
• sneezing
• a sore throat
• a cough
• fever
• or sudden loss of smell or taste. 

You cannot get a test if you do not have one or more of the symptoms. This way the tests remain available to everyone who really needs it.

If you have severe symptoms or belong to an at-risk group, contact a doctor or A&E department. In a life-threatening situation, always call 112.

How to register for a test

You can call the national hotline: 0800-1202 or make an appointment online:

• Call 0800-1202 for an appointment.
  This hotline is available every day from 08:00 to 20:00 hrs. You will need your citizen service number (BSN). Please stay at home and go to the test alone.
• Make an online appointment at www.coronatest.nl.
  You will need to log in with your DigiD and follow the instructions online.

Testing for children

Children should also be tested if they have cold/flu-like symptoms:

• Children 0 to 6 years
  Call GGD Haaglanden: 088-3550100 option 0 then option 3 and finally option 1.
• Children 7 to 17 years
  Call 0800-1202

Children may find the test a little unpleasant, as the test requires a cotton swab to be inserted in their nose and throat. Parents are advised to prepare their children for this.

Refer to this infographic for more information on testing for children.

What to expect

1. You will be given a test location and designated time when you register for a test. You should stay at home and go to the test alone.
2. At the test location, a medical personnel will collect mucous, and swab samples from your nose and throat. This will only take a few minutes and the test is free of charge.
3. You should stay at home while waiting for your test results. The Hague Municipal Health Service 'GGD Haaglanden' will call you within 24 to 48 hours with the results.

Refer to this infographic for more information on the coronavirus test.

Test locations

There are five test locations throughout The Hague region. GGD Haaglanden is planning to set-up more test locations in Zoetermeer and Delft in September.

• Nootdorp: Van der Valk Hotel
  This is the main test location in The Hague and is open throughout the week. As this is a drive-thru, you are advised to travel here by car.
• The Hague: HMC Westeinde
  This location is for residents who are not able to access the main test location in Nootdorp by car.
• Naaldwijk: Opposite the municipal office ‘Gemeente Westland’
  This location is open on weekdays and is accessible by car, bicycle, and on foot.
• Leidschendam: HMC Antoniushove, Burgemeester Banninglaan
  This location is open on weekdays and is accessible by car, bicycle, and on foot.
• The Hague: HMC Bronovo
  This location will start testing from 24 August, and will be open Monday to Friday from 08:30 – 16:30 hrs. Accessible by car, bicycle, and on foot.

Contact tracing

If someone is infected with the coronavirus, the Municipal Health Service ‘GGD’ will begin source and contact tracing. This means that the patient’s household, and people who have been in contact with the patient will be approached by the GGD within 24 hours to check if they feel unwell. Depending on their condition, they will be advised to self-quarantine or get tested.

Refer to this infographic for more information on contact tracing.