Large COVID-19 testing turnout prompts health officials to hold more events

Norfolk — A “robust” response to public health officials’ first large-scale coronavirus testing event in months has persuaded them to continue offering more through September and possibly longer.

The testing event, which drew 119 people to Military Circle Mall last Wednesday, will be held again from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 1.

Testing is available to anyone ages 3 and up. People under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

No appointments are needed — just show up, officials said

The staggering rise of COVID-19 cases, fueled by the more contagious delta variant, spurred public health officials to provide testing last week at the former Macy’s store, where semiweekly vaccinations have been administered.

Because of the surge, about 1 in 10 tests are coming back positive for the virus throughout Virginia, though positive test rates have been higher throughout Hampton Roads.

During the January peak of the pandemic, over 40,000 standard COVID-19 tests were happening on a daily basis throughout the state. But as a fourth wave has swept over Virginia this month, testing efforts have not kept that pace. Right now a little over 20,000 tests are being conducted per day.

Masks are required while attending the clinic. Participants are asked to bring their IDs, though they aren’t necessary.

The clinic is at 880 N. Military Hwy. For more information, call the Norfolk COVID-19 hotline at 757-683-2745.

For those who can’t attend, other testing sites can be found at www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/covid-19-testing-sites.

Elisha Sauers, 757-839-4754, elisha.sauers@pilotonline.com