The drive-through coronavirus testing center in Jefferson Parish at the Alario Center in Westwego opened today and, according to the Louisiana National Guard, began testing emergency medical personnel, first responders and people who are exhibiting high fever and symptoms of COVID-19.
Starting tomorrow in New Orleans, at the Mahailia Jackson Theatre parking lot and at UNO’s Lakefront Arena parking lot, the expanded testing get underway.
At all testing sites a total of 100 tests-per-day in total will be performed.
Personnel in full medical protective gear will check the individual’s temperature with a no-touch thermometer and insert a nasal swab to obtain the necessary sample.
Test results will be given by phone within three to five days.
Testing is made possible by a pilot program with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
More than 100 Soldiers and Airmen are stationed at three sites in Orleans and Jefferson Parishes to assist local agencies with testing and traffic control support.
The drive-through testing sites are operated by the City of New Orleans, with assistance from the Louisiana National Guard, the Medical Reserve Corps, and the U.S. Public Health Service.
