Arizona Testing Blitz kicks-off in Yuma County
Keep reading for future testing dates
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Governor Doug Ducey and the Arizona Department of Health Services are partnering with the community to expand coronavirus testing for Arizonans. Sunset Health is hosting Yuma’s testing blitz for the next three Saturday’s.
Hundreds of people packed the parking lot of Sunset Health, all in hopes of finding peace of mind during this pandemic.
On a first come first serve basis, locals had their first opportunity to get tested for coronavirus.
“It’s uncomfortable but you gotta do what you gotta do!” a local exclaimed.
Sunset Health, one of the largest medical organizations, in Yuma County, is stepping up to host today’s blitz.
“Once Dr. Christ, who is the Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, announced the testing blitz that would be done across the state of Arizona, we felt like it was a perfect fit for our organization as a community health center," said David Rogers, CEO of Sunset Health.
"We wanted to participate and make this service available for individuals in Yuma County,” the CEO said.
Sonora Quest Laboratories and the State Health Department provided the test kits today.
“We had 300 test kits available. It was a PRC testing which Is the testing thats done that gives you a snapshot of whether you have the COVID-19 virus at this particular point in time," Rogers said.
It has not been easy to retrieve coronavirus test kits.
“Test kits and testing overall has been very slow to come to Yuma County. It’s certainly been good to see an expansion of testing capabilities here in Yuma County. The residents have been waiting a long time.”
Despite waiting in the long lines, people expressed the importance of getting tested.
Alfonso Porchas attended today's testing blitz with his family.
"Like about two hours. Which, you know what, its worth it," he said.
"Come and know what you got, just in case,” Porchas added.
If you weren’t able to make it out today, there are two more testing blitz opportunities:
Somerton- Saturday, May 9, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 115 N. Somerton Avenue (Sunset Health parking lot).
San Luis- Saturday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 815 E. Cesar Chavez Blvd (Sunset Health parking lot).
