West Wake News

The Wake County Public Health Division will provide another round of drive-thru COVID-19 testing at the Sunnybrook building parking deck. 

The testing will take place from Aug. 27 to Aug. 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Testing is provided in 30-minute blocks, and the division said that it has 400 slots available. Testing is free, however, those wanting a test have to register in advance and bring that form to the location, the division said in an Aug. 19 update. 

There are requirements to receive a test, such as showing COVID-19 symptoms, being a first responder, or having underlying health conditions, among others. 

The division also reminded students to practice social distancing as they head back to their college campuses. 

Wake County Medical Director Dr. Kim McDonald said that she knows kids want to socialize and visit with their friends. However, she wants students to consider the risks. 

“This won’t be the last we hear of clusters popping up on college campuses as classes start up again,” McDonald, said in an Aug. 20 release. “We know students want to socialize and hang out in big groups, but those kinds of events put everyone at risk – especially if they’re not wearing masks and social distancing.”

According to McDonald, if students and staff follow the best practices, the risk of infection will be significantly reduced.

“We’re not saying students shouldn’t enjoy their college experience, but right now, they should choose low-risk activities like biking with a few friends, dinner with a small group or playing no contact recreational sports," McDonald said in a press release. “These pose a much lower risk to all involved than house parties or large gatherings.”