News

Actions

Mt. Juliet continues drive-thru COVID-19 testing this week

Posted
and last updated

MT. JULIET, Tenn. (WTVF) — Mt. Juliet is hosting two, free COVID-19 testing events this week.

The city said this week’s two-day event is Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in the parking lot of Charlie Daniels Park.

Mt. Juliet partnered with Kroger for the drive-thru screenings. To be tested, you must make an appointment in advance.

“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,” shared Kenny Martin, City Manager for Mr. Juliet. “Increased testing opportunities are vital as we begin to get people back to work.”

Officials also asked everyone to have their windows up when in the testing area and have your photo ID ready.

MORE TENNESSEE COVID-19 COVERAGE

See all our coronavirus coverage here

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.