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New Drive Up Coronavirus Testing Coming To Lexington

Lexington citizens will have access to free drive up coronavirus testing in the coming days.  Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton says the sites will be located near African American neighborhoods.  Studies show African Americans have become sick and have died from Covid-19 complications at a disproportional rate compared to the rest of the population.

During Thursday’s announcement in Lexington, Fayette County Health Commissioner Kraig Humbaugh said more testing is needed before relaxing any restrictions. “This type of testing, more broad testing will become more important because those of us who have been physically distancing may start to have more contact with others, so it will be increasing important for us to identify those who are infected and isolate them,” said Humbaugh.

On hand for the announcement at city hall was Antioch Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Keith Tyler Senior.  He first apologized to those in the community for the current status and concluded by offering a commitment.  “We stand ready to help you.  There will be information that will be flood gating throughout the various venues of our community and once again we stand ready to help you.  We’re going to do a better job and we’re going to beat this thing, COVID-19,” said Tyler.

The free drive up testing, open to anyone, will begin Monday at a Bluegrass Community and Technical College site.  Gorton noted those wishing to take the test need to register online at krogerhealth.com. 

Another testing site at Walgreens on Executive Drive is restricted to those over 18 showing symptoms, healthcare workers, and first responders.  It opens Friday.  Registration begins Friday at walgreens.com/coronavirus.

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