Anyone with symptoms eligible for coronavirus testing in Georgia
ATLANTA - Georgia health officials have expanded testing criteria for COVID-19, allowing more people to be tested at drive-through sites.
App users click here for live updates
Effective immediately, the Georgia Department of Health says that all people with coronavirus symptoms are eligible for coronavirus testing.
Officials say health care workers, first responders, law enforcement, and residents and staff of long-term care facilities will still be prioritized regardless of symptoms.
This change in criteria comes after Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said on Monday that testing needed to be expanded in the state.
Sign up for FOX 5 email alerts
"Our testing number in Georgia continues to lag," Kemp said at the state Capitol.
In order to get a test, you must have a referral from either local health department or health care provider. You can find a listing of local testing sites and health departments below.
Appointments are still required for any coronavirus testing, and health officials say people should not arrive without a schedule appointment to any specimen colleciton site, hospital, emergency room, or other health care facility.
Know how the COVID-19 outbreak is impacting Georgia
Best prevention measures:
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least twenty seconds.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces