Free COVID-19 testing event set Oct. 23

Lorain County Health & Dentistry, a community health center, will work with the Ohio National Guard, Lorain County Public Health and the city of Avon, to conduct a free, one-day coronavirus testing event in Avon.

The partners will hold a COVID-19 Community Testing Event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 23 in the parking lot of the Crushers Stadium, 2009 Baseball Blvd., according to a news release from Health & Dentistry.

The event is open to the public.

This is a drive-thru event and those to be tested will remain in their vehicle to receive the swab test through an open window.

No walk-ups are permitted.

“This will be our fifth community testing event in Lorain County,” said Stephanie Wiersma, CEO of Lorain County Health & Dentistry. “In the first four events, over 1,600 people received a COVID-19 PCR test at no cost.

“Some people needed a negative result to return to work or school, or to travel. Others had concern for exposure to the virus due to circumstances at home or elsewhere.

“I am happy we are able to bring this needed service to Avon, improving access to testing for those who live in Northeast Ohio.”

Avon Mayor Bryan Jensen said he is grateful that Avon was chosen as a COVID-19 Pop-Up site as it is a great location.

“We will be able to serve the residents of Avon, as well as many of our surrounding communities,” Jensen said.

Testing will be available for individuals ages 2 and older, including for those who have no symptoms.

The test has no out-ofpocket cost, insurance is not required and no questions about insurance will be asked, according to the release.

Those desiring a test will not need a doctor’s referral or order, no pre-registration is required and all are welcome.

“When people are tested, it allows us to quickly identify infected people and isolate them,” said Lorain County Public Health Commissioner Dave Covell. “In that way, it helps us contain and decrease the spread of COVID-19 so we can go on the offense against this virus

“Wearing a mask when running errands, keeping a distance from others, washing our hands and getting tested when we have symptoms or have been exposed to the virus are all ways we can defend ourselves and others from the virus,” he said.

Testing is an important safety tool in the battle with this virus, Wiersma said.

“Testing identifies persons who have the virus so that we can both better manage those affected and help to protect others by minimizing the spread,” she said.