December 11, 2020
Media Contact: Breanne Forbes Hubbard, population health manager, Breanne.forbes-hubbard@vdh.virginia.gov, 276-759-8297
VIRGINIA NATIONAL GUARD TESTING EVENT UPDATES
(Marion, Va.) – The Virginia National Guard will be conducting mass COVID-19 testing events in the Mount Rogers Health District December 14-19 as a result of high regional positivity rates.
These events are free, open to the public, and do not require an appointment or advance registration. Testing will be at all sites from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Virginia National Guard is only able to test those 16 and older.
“COVID-19 percent positivity is at an alarming 24.2% in Mount Rogers Health District,” said Dr. Karen Shelton, Director of Mount Rogers Health District. “This tells us that we need more testing in our region. We have partnered with the National Guard and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to bring these resources to our community.”
“It is safest to avoid gathering with anyone outside of your household over the upcoming holidays,” continued Dr. Shelton. “However, if you plan to gather anyway, please protect your loved ones by getting tested and then staying home until you gather.”
Testing site information:
- Monday, 12/14, lower parking lot at Abingdon High School, 705 Thompson Drive, Abingdon
- Tuesday, 12/15, First Baptist Church, 1024 E Stuart Drive, Galax
- Wednesday, 12/16, Marion Senior High School 848 Stage St, Marion
- Thursday, 12/17, lower parking lot at Carroll County High School (below football field), 100 Cavs Lane, Hillsville
- Friday, 12/18, Cumberland Square Park parking lot, Moore Street, Bristol
- Saturday, 12/19, Smyth Hall parking lot, Wytheville Community College, 1000 E Main St, Wytheville
Any news organizations looking to cover the testing event should reach out to Breanne Forbes Hubbard, Breanne.forbes-hubbard@vdh.virginia.gov or Bobby Parker, Robert.parker@vdh.virginia.gov by 4 p.m. the previous day. Please note that for privacy purposes, there will be restrictions on what can be filmed/photographed.
For more information about COVID-19, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
# # #