January 10, 2022
Media Contact: Larry Hill, larry.hill@vdh.virginia.gov
COMMUNITY TESTING CENTER OPENING AT NORFOLK MILITARY CIRCLE
Appointment Only Hours: Saturday – Thursday, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
(Norfolk, Va.)— The Norfolk Health Department today announced that a Community Testing Center (CTC) will open at the Military Circle to provide free Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing for COVID-19 to increase availability in response to public demand. The CTC begins testing at the site on Tuesday, January 11, by appointment only.
“As we face a national shortage of rapid COVID-19 tests, this expanded capability to use PCR testing will be critical for residents looking for free, reliable testing if they have been exposed to someone ill or may be feeling the symptoms of COVID,” notes Dr. Parham Jaberi, chief deputy commissioner for the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
The Norfolk Health Department has been holding testing events each Monday at the Military Circle Mall since September 2021, but this new operation allowing residents to be tested six days a week will significantly enhance availability and accessibility to tests. This appointment only COVID-19 testing will be held outside the mall structure in a tent to minimize potential exposure of those who are symptomatic and need testing versus those coming in for vaccinations.
Given the high demand for testing, the CTC will operate by appointments only and be open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday through Thursday. The Norfolk Health Department will however place staff on site to assist individuals with lack of access to internet or who may require further assistance with registration. The testing facility will be closed on Fridays. To find an appointment, visit vase.vdh.virginia.gov/testingappointment. Enter zip code 23502.
CTC test results will be automatically sent via text or email message to individuals being tested, based on the information provided in the appointment system.
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 are coordinated by the State VDH office and will be operating in addition to existing Community Testing Events which have been locally coordinated and administered through local health departments and community partners.
News media are not permitted inside any CTC during regular hours to ensure patient privacy. Arrangements must be made 24 hours ahead of time with the local health department public information officer (PIO) to tour a CTC outside regular hours. Tours will be escorted by a PIO. No exceptions will be made.
Media members may respectfully approach attendees outside of the facility and talk to them there, if they provide consent.
To learn more about COVID-19 testing, visit the VDH COVID-19 Testing webpage.
###