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Portsmouth Health District, Va. National Guard host free COVID-19 testing

Posted at 4:39 PM, May 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-18 16:39:18-04

PORTSMOUTH, Va. - The Portsmouth Health District along with the Virginia National Guard will be holding a free COVID-19 drive-thru testing event for Portsmouth residents.

The testing event will take place on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Tidewater Community College-Portsmouth Campus.

Those coming for testing must remain in their vehicles and wear a face covering.

Residents must register and be pre-screened. For pre-screening and registration, call (757) 393-8585.

Those wanting to get tested must be 16-years-old and bring a valid ID.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, health districts are increasing community testing to keep our citizens safe and informed. With the support of the National Guard we are excited to provide this community testing event,” said Portsmouth Health Director Dr. Lauren James. “We are also working with local healthcare partners to provide additional testing opportunities.”

To lower the risk of spreading respiratory infections, including COVID-19, the Virginia Department of Health encourages everyone to:
· Stay home, except for essential travel
· If you must go out in public, wear a cloth face covering
· Stay home if 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 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
· Avoid close contact with crowds of any size, and avoid any crowd of more than 10 people.

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