COVID-19 testing site, despite some logistical problems, is up and running in Kings County

By The Leader Staff
COVID-19 testing site, despite some logistical problems, is up and running in Kings County

Despite some logistical difficulties, a COVID-19 testing site established through a partnership between the state and OptumServe is up and running. The facility was initially scheduled to open on Monday, May 4.

One of the site’s priorities is to urge Central Valley Meat Company employees to register to get tested as soon as possible. The local meat company had several of its employees test positive for the coronavirus and were quarantined.

Optum Serve is a federal government health services business branch of Optum, a health services innovation company with extensive expertise in deploying and setting up health care services.

The state’s roadmap to modify the stay-at-home order includes the ability to monitor and protect communities through testing and contact tracing, and the new testing site dramatically increases the number of tests that can be administered daily in Kings County.

The site is open to residents meeting the current testing priority guidelines established by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Testing is free for all individuals, including those who are uninsured or undocumented, and testing results are confidential.

Testing is by appointment only and can be scheduled online at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or by calling (888) 634-1123. Walk-ins are not accepted.

Kings County public health officials are prioritizing the recent COVID-19 outbreak that sickened numerous Central Valley Meat Company employees. Kings County Department of Public Health Officer Milton Teske is asking the company’s employees, and their families, to register and get tested immediately.

Health officials have established a call center to assist with the registration process and provide information. That number is (559) 852-4300, and staff is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Assistance is also available in Spanish.

Individuals can also be tested through their primary care provider if they are experiencing symptoms and have been in contact with a confirmed case. Please contact your primary care provider for guidance and instructions for testing. 

The county continues to stress the importance of following the state’s stay-at-home guidelines, as well as following best practices known to limit the spread of communicable diseases. County officials recommend residents take the following actions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Kings County and protect themselves and others from respiratory illnesses:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands.
  • Stay in your home as much as possible. The only exceptions should be for getting food or necessary household supplies, medications, and medical treatments.
  • Wear a face mask or covering, and practice social distancing of at least six feet if it is necessary to leave your home.
  • Limit close contact, like kissing and sharing cups or utensils, with people who are sick.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.

Visit www.kingscovidinfo.com for current information and guidance.

 

COVID-19 testing site, despite some logistical problems, is up and running in Kings County

Comments powered by Disqus