June 18, 2020
Media Contact: Lorrie Andrew-Spear, Lorrie.Andrew-Spear@vdh.virginia.gov
Free Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing Friday, June 26 in Brunswick
Event Starts at 10 a.m. at the Brunswick County Conference Center (Parking Lot)
(Saluda, Virginia) – The Southside Health District will offer free drive-thru COVID-19 screening and testing Friday, June 26 at the Brunswick County Conference Center parking lot at 100 Athletic Field Road in Lawrenceville, VA from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. or until supplies run out.
“We are pleased to bring this testing event to the Brunswick community and encourage residents to come get tested. Test results from this community-wide testing event will give us a good indicator of the prevalence of the disease in our community,” said Scott Spillmann, M.D., M.P.H., director of the Southside Health District.
Dr. Spillmann advises: “Remember that test results are only part of the picture. A negative test today doesn’t protect you from a possible exposure tomorrow – it is not a vaccine. We know community transmission of COVID-19 has been widespread since late March, and we know the best protection for each of us comes from personal precautions, including wearing face coverings, practicing good hygiene and social distancing. That’s how we protect ourselves and those around us.”
This is primarily a drive-thru event. Testing is available to those aged 10 years and older. Those seeking tests should be seated near a window of the vehicle. Please note that those who are not able to drive to the site may walk up to be tested, and should follow safety precautions such as social distancing and wearing a mask or cloth face covering.
“Those with symptoms of respiratory illness are encouraged to come and be tested, but anyone who seeks a test will receive one,” added Dr. Spillmann. “Everyone is welcome.”
Tests are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No insurance is needed. No appointment is needed. This is a free service. This event is held in partnership with Brunswick County, the Town of Lawrenceville and the Virginia Department of Health.
To protect yourself and healthcare workers, wear a cloth face covering or mask. Keep at least six feet of distance between yourself and other people at all times. Be sure to tell the testing providers if you have any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, deep cough or shortness of breath, or believe that you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
To lower the risk of spreading respiratory infections, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages everyone to:
- Stay home as much as possible, especially if you are at higher risk of serious illness. If you must go out in public, wear a cloth face covering;
- Stay home when you are sick;
- Avoid contact with sick people;
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing;
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer ONLY if soap and water are not available;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces;
- If you are experiencing symptoms, call your doctor;
- Practice social distancing. Maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and other individuals when out in public; and avoid crowds of people.
For more information about this event, call 434-738-6545. Information on COVID-19 in Virginia is available at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
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MEDIA NOTE:
News media access to these test sites is available ONLY by advance request and appointment. Access will be escorted, for the purposes of limited photography and videography from a distance. These measures are necessary to ensure patient privacy and operational security.
For more information and to request news media access, contact Risk Communications Manager Lorrie Andrew-Spear, Lorrie.Andrew-Spear@vdh.virginia.gov.