Southern Seven Health Department hosts mobile COVID-19 testing events at several locations; Hardin County event to be held Oct. 10
As COVID-19 continues to sweep across the region, Southern Seven Health Department (S7HD) encourages all residents to get tested regardless of symptoms, especially if they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. It is through testing that the health department can effectively track this disease and prevent its spread to our most vulnerable populations.
In the past month, S7HD has held mobile COVID-19 test events in five of the seven counties they serve, testing 382 people.
The next events will be held from 9 am-5 pm at the:
Massac County Public Health Clinic in Metropolis on October 5
Union County Public Health Clinic in Anna on October 9
Hardin County Public Health Clinic on October 10.
“Understanding the impact of COVID-19 in the region is only acquired through testing” said Shawnna Rhine, Community Outreach Coordinator for S7HD. “Further testing in our communities is giving us a clearer picture of the actual and potential number of positive cases, and through contact tracing, helping to slow the spread of this deadly disease.”
The free nasal swab test is quick and easy, with results in as little as 3 days. Anyone needing a COVID-19 test, even those without symptoms, can be tested without an appointment or doctor’s referral. The Illinois Department of Health and Southern Seven Health Department are hosting these events.
The most recent mobile testing occurred on September 26 in Cairo and September 27 in Golconda. Sixty-one people were tested in Cairo, while 38 were tested in Golconda. Other testing sites have been held in Anna, Vienna and Ullin.
Residents unable to be tested on these dates are asked to watch for these symptoms: Fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. If symptoms develop, begin isolation immediately and contact your healthcare provider about getting tested for COVID-19.
On September 29, Southern Seven reported a cumulative total of 1161 COVID-19 cases and 25 deaths in the southern seven region since the start of the pandemic in the United States. The Department continues to see community transmission of COVID-19 at social events and gatherings at alarming rates.
There is no cure or vaccine to prevent COVID-19. Southern Seven wants anyone who thinks they may be at risk for contracting this disease to be tested. For more details about the COVID-19 Mobile Testing Unit, or for questions regarding COVID-19, contact Southern Seven Health Department at 618-634-2297 or visit them on Facebook.
