MT. JULIET, Tenn. (WTVF) — Free drive-thru COVID-19 testing opportunities will continue in Mt. Juliet this week.
Due to the strong turnout last week, Kroger Health made the decision to add additional testing dates May 19 through May 21.
“We are grateful to the Wilson County Health Department for connecting Kroger Health with Mt. Juliet for this opportunity for the citizens of our community," said Kenny Martin, Mr. Juliet city manager. "Increased testing opportunities are vital as we begin to get people back to work.”
Those who are interested in being testing can go to Mt. Juliet Middle School on N. Mt. Juliet Road from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Testing will be conducted in the parking lot.
Testing is open to anyone regardless of symptoms, but you must schedule an appointment ahead of time through Kroger Health's online portal.
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COUNTY-BY-COUNTY CASES IN TENNESSEE
What is COVID-19 (a.k.a. the new coronavirus?)
According to the World Health Organization, coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. Examples include the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV)and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. COVID-19 stands for "Coronavirus disease 2019," which is when this strain of the coronavirus was discovered.
What are the symptoms?
The CDC says patients confirmed to have the 2019-nCoV reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Or at least two of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
At this time, the CDC believes symptoms could appear as soon as two days after exposure, or as long as 14 days.
Prevention
The CDC is recommending "common sense" measures such as:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 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 mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
