Starting Monday, state coronavirus testing sites will be fixed rather than mobile.
State officials announced the change earlier this week, saying the shift means more, and more consistent, testing locations across the state. Tests are still free.
“We continue to see community spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 throughout the state,” said Delaware Division of Public Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay in a statement Friday. “That is why it is so important that consistent, stable testing availability continues to be available to Delawareans when and where they need it, regardless of symptoms or insurance.”
Rattay says the state continues to encourage testing, especially for those who have been in close contact with a positive case and or have frequent or high-risk contact with others.
“The fact is, testing for COVID-19 is the best way to track the spread of this virus across our state and country,” said Governor John Carney. “It’s also the way we contain potential outbreaks.”
The fixed testing locations include eight drive-through Walgreens sites, five State Service Center sites and six public health clinics. The Walgreens sites do not require reservations. Residents can register online through Curative for the state service centers and should call for appointments at the public health clinics. The sites will be open five to seven days a week depending on the location.
The types of tests will vary by location — and include saliva-based tests and the swabs that go just inside the nostrils. State officials say they should all deliver results in 48-72 hours.
The state also announced this week it is making an at-home testing option previously used for school staff available to some in the general public.
“We are committed to providing easy access to testing for all,” said A.J. Schall, director of the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, in a statement Friday.
Testing is also available through hospitals, private labs and Federally Qualified Health Centers.
State fixed coronavirus testing sites:
Covid Test Centers by Delaware Public Media on Scribd
