News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The Putnam County Health Department will move Covid-19 testing to the Putnam County Fairgrounds starting Monday.
County Health Director Lisa Bumbalough said the health department moved the location due to increased traffic.
“We have seen an increase in the last few weeks,” Bumbalough said. “Of course, as everyone can see, Covid-19 is still very active in our community, as evident by the increase of number of positive cases. With those positive cases, comes exposures, transmissions and contacts, so you are going to see more individuals that want to be tested.”
Bumbalough said testing will continue to be drive thru only Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 12 noon. People wanting to be tested will enter on Walnut Avenue and follow signage to the north grandstand.
“If you are symptomatic with Covid-19 symptoms or suspect that, then certainly come and be tested,” Bumbalough said. “You do not have to have an appointment. You can just drive up during our hours.”
Bumbalough said with COVID still active in the community, people need to be proactive in protecting themselves, as well as individuals at-risk. The change of location will also help the health department improve services for patients.
“We continue to encourage everyone to take steps to prevent the spread,” Bumbalough said. “Practice social distancing. Continue to practice good hygiene habits. Masking in public and avoiding large gatherings. We are responsible for our own actions. Hopefully, with these measures, we can all decrease that transmission and spread of the virus in our community.”
