The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation is asking everyone in Bethel to get tested for COVID-19, and is hosting an event with cash prizes in order to achieve that goal.
YKHC is partnering with ONC and the City of Bethel to sponsor a mass drive-thru COVID-19 testing event this Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot across from the hospital. YKHC said in a press release that the City of Bethel would conduct a $1000 raffle every 30 minutes for individuals that participate in the testing event.
YKHC said that COVID-19 is spreading quickly, widely, and undetected in Bethel. If you live in Bethel you could be infected, but not showing any symptoms and unintentionally spreading the virus. YKHC said that widespread testing will identify undetected cases and help the organization understand the extent of community-based transmission in Bethel.
YKHC is now administering rapid-response tests for anyone showing COVID-19 symptoms, regardless of if they are a close contact of a positive individual. Some testing sites may not be able to administer rapid tests because they need to be processed within one hour of test collection.
At the same time that you get tested, you can also get a free flu shot. YKHC said that getting a flu shot will help prevent simultaneous COVID-19 and flu outbreaks in the community, which could strain the capabilities of the public health system.
YKHC continues to offer free COVID-19 testing without an appointment Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 4 p.m. in the parking lot across from the Bethel hospital. You can also get tested on Monday or Friday with an appointment.
