COVID-19 testing continues

STAFF REPORT

SARASOTA –– Drive-thru testing for the COVID-19 coronavirus will continue this week at sites in North Port and Laurel for those who have made appointments in advance.

These community based COVID-19 testing events are for those individuals who are currently experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, or shortness of breath) or who work in a health care setting.

To make an appointment, call 941-861-2883 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Callers will be screened using current CDC testing criteria. Appointments are limited however more testing opportunities may be scheduled in the future.

While these are primarily drive-thru sites, DOH Sarasota can accommodate walk-ups, and people on bicycles.

Testing in North Port will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at the Heron Creek Middle School, 6501 W. Price Blvd, North Port.

On Thursday, May 7, testing will take place from 8 a.m. to noon at the Laurel Civic Association, 509 Collins Road, Laurel.

The Florida Department of Health continues to see new positive cases across the state. Visit www.flhealth.gov/covid-19 for the most current case count and county specific data.

The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

The Florida Department of Health reminds everyone that the elderly and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems and diabetes are more likely to develop serious illness.

If you are sick with COVID-19 or suspect you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, follow the steps below to help prevent the disease from spreading to people in your home and community.

Stay home except to get medical care: You should restrict activities outside your home, except for getting medical care. Do not go to work, school, or public areas. Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.