Health offices providing free virus testing

The health districts for the coalfield region strongly encourage people to get tested for COVID-19 before and after any holiday gatherings.

The Lenowisco and Cumberland Plateau and Lenowisco health districts are offering virus testing at each of their local health department offices. The tests are free and you do not need insurance, but appointments are required. No walk-ins will be accepted.

“Due to the holidays and the colder weather, individuals are spending more time inside and with others,” said population health manager Allie Phillips. “This unfortunately means that the transmission of viruses such as COVID-19 and the flu tend to increase. That’s why not only are we strongly encouraging community members to get tested before and after they return from the holidays, but also recommending that they get vaccinated against COVID- 19 and the flu.”

Rapid testing is not available at the health departments, but they are fully equipped with PCR send-out tests. The turnaround time for these tests is usually around 48 hours, making it important to get tested a couple of days before any planned events.

If you need to get tested, please call your local health department to make an appointment. For Dickenson County, the number is 276/926-4979.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccination, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/covid-19-vaccine.