Third round of free COVID testing kicks off Tuesday morning

Metro Wire Staff

The Portage Co. Health Dept. will host another round of free testing for COVID-19 on Sept. 22.

The drive-thru nasal swab testing will be conducted by the Wisconsin National Guard, offered 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the rear parking lot of the Ruth Gilfry Building, 817 Whiting Ave.

In a news release from Portage Co., Health Officer Gary Garske said the round of testing is being held in response to “the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Portage County and throughout the state.”

As of 2 p.m. on Sept. 21, Portage Co. has confirmed 1,218 positive cases of the coronavirus since August. Four residents in Portage Co. have died from the virus. 

Motorists are asked to enter Whiting Ave. from River View Ave./County Hwy. HH. Law enforcement will be on-site to help control traffic.

Testing is offered to all Portage County and Wisconsin residents ages 5 and older who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19, or, are demonstrating one or more of the following symptoms: fever, cough, loss of taste/smell, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, body aches, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, chills, or muscle aches.

No appointment is necessary, and testing is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Test results are generally returned in a few days.

Participants will be asked to provide a current address and phone number, identify their county of residence, and answer screening questions, and will remain in their vehicle at all times.

Anyone with questions or immediate needs related to COVID-19 should call 211 or text COVID-19 to 211-211.