While most of the county’s recent COVID-19 focus has been on launching the vaccination campaign, residents are reminded not to forget the importance of getting tested for the virus, especially if planning to spend time with extended family or friends. Managing editor Tami Roleff has more information…
Public health rules allow for gatherings of up to 12 people from no more than three households (including your own).
But in advance of any such gathering, health officials strongly encourage all individuals to get tested to give everyone valuable peace of mind.
This means that if a group is planning to get together for a birthday party, take a trip to a winery or a weekend ski trip, it makes a lot of sense for everyone to take advantage of free, convenient testing in the days prior to the event so that everyone in the group can feel comfortable knowing they are safe.
“Getting tested is especially important if you are coming in contact with people outside your immediate household,” said County Public Health Director Corwin Porter. “Our vaccination program is expanding steadily, yet it’s still essential for everyone to remain vigilant. You absolutely do not want to be the one who spreads the virus to others — especially when we’re making such excellent progress on vaccinations and inching closer toward herd immunity.”
Testing is widely available, and there are numerous testing sites located throughout the County, so securing an appointment is not difficult. Free testing is available to everyone (including those without symptoms); a doctor’s prescription is not required. Results are shared within about 48 hours.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit sbcovid19.com
COVID-19 website: https://sbcovid19.com/testing-sites/
Morongo Basin Community Health Center and the county offer COVID-19 testing. An appointment is required.
Participants remain in their vehicle at the Yucca Valley and Twentynine Palms Health Centers; the county test site at the Twentynine Palms Community Center is walk-up. Staff will ask for medical insurance information. No co-pay or share-of-cost will be collected. All insurances are accepted. The uninsured are welcome.
Testing at the Yucca Valley Health Center is on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 to noon. Call 760-820-2614 to make an appointment for a test.
In Twentynine Palms (6380 Split Rock Avenue) testing is on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., and the county’s test site is open at the Twentynine Palms Community Center, 74325 Joe Davis Dr., Twentynine Palms, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
