COVID-19 testing expanded with 2 new Columbia sites

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Access to free, self-administered COVID-19 testing is being expanded in Columbia from now until Oct. 3.

Community testing events are being held at Founders Park and at Martin Luther King Jr. Park. The expanded testing sites are a partnership between the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which is covering testing costs, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, the University of South Carolina and the city of Columbia.

Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams made an appearance in Columbia on Saturday to announce the testing push.

“I’m glad to be in Columbia to represent HHS as these testing sites are stood up, increasing access to critical testing resources,” Adams said in a news release. “If you or your loved ones are worried you may have come into contact with COVID-19 or are experiencing any symptoms, please make an appointment to get tested. It’s easy and free. Please also remember to continue to do your part to stop the spread of COVID-19 by following the three Ws: Wear a mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance.”

Testing dates and times are:

Founders Park, 431 Williams St., Columbia (drive-through and walk-up)

• Monday, Sept. 21-Friday, Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Sunday, Sept. 27-Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Martin Luther King Jr. Park at 2300 Greene St., Columbia (walk-up testing only)

• Monday, Sept. 21-Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Registration and a printable test voucher are available online at www.doineedacovid19test.com. Results will be available via email in as soon as three days, according to the release.

Testing is available for individuals five years and older. Those under 16 must have a parent or legal guardian present. Participants do not need to a resident of Richland County, and each person being tested will receive five cloth face coverings.

“Testing remains a critical component in the fight against COVID-19, and we are committed to working with our federal, state and local partners to continue to bring access to free testing in our communities,” Marshall Taylor, DHEC acting director, said. “DHEC is asking South Carolinians to do your part to get tested.”