The Hampton and Peninsula Health Districts today announced that a Community Testing Center (CTC) will open at the Sherwood Shopping Center located at 13785 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, VA on Monday, January 10, 2022. The CTE will provide free Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing for COVID-19. The CTC services will be available in a heated tent on the same property as the Community Vaccination Center.
“The addition of the Community Testing Center provides another avenue for Covid-19 testing which is currently in high demand,” says Dr. Natasha Dwamena, the Health Districts’ Director.
The CTC will operate by appointment only from 9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Thursday. Weekend testing will be available Friday through Monday, January 29-31. To find an appointment, visit vase.vdh.virginia.gov/testingappointment beginning Saturday, January 8 at noon. Again, all testing is by appointment only. Walk-ins will not be accepted.
CTC test results will be sent automatically via text or email message, to individuals being tested, based on the information they entered into the appointment system. The local health district cannot provide the results.
PCR test results are usually available within a few days and are very effective in detecting an active COVID-19 infection, even if asymptomatic. These CTCs will be in addition to existing Community Testing Events (CTEs) which have been locally coordinated through local health departments (LHDs) and/or specific community partners since Spring 2020.
To ensure patient privacy news media are not permitted inside any CTC during regular hours. Arrangements can be made 24 hours ahead of time with the local health department PIO for an escorted tour of the CTC outside regular hours. No exceptions are permitted. Media members may respectfully approach attendees outside of the facility and talk to them there, if the attendee provides consent.
To learn more about COVID-19 testing, visit the VDH COVID-19 Testing webpage.