Coronavirus Drive-Thru Test Site Opening At MD State Fairgrounds

TIMONIUM, MD — The Maryland State Fairgrounds will be transformed into a testing site for the new coronavirus starting Thursday, April 16. Those who want to be tested for the virus must have an order from a doctor and an appointment. Walk-ins will not be accepted.

Health officials say 1,485 people have tested positive for the virus in Baltimore County, where 27 people have died from it as of Wednesday, April 15.

“Our response to this pandemic must include every effort possible to help reduce the spread of the virus and save lives, and testing is a critical component of those efforts," County Executive Johnny Olszewski said in a statement. "Increasing testing capacity in Baltimore County is part of our comprehensive effort to keep our residents safe and healthy during this crisis."

The new testing site will be a drive-thru clinic run by the Baltimore County Department of Health. Testing will be conducted Tuesdays and Thursdays when kits are available.

People will need an order authorizing the test from a doctor and an appointment scheduled using the state-designated Chesapeake Regional Information System (CRISP).

Officials said they chose the fairgrounds since the site was accessible and could handle vehicles in multiple lanes at one time.

"Providing a testing clinic at this location will allow for both efficiency and safety, and is another example of Baltimore County working to meet the changing landscape brought about by this pandemic," Baltimore County Health Officer Dr. Gregory Wm. Branch said in a statement. "In a matter of weeks, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed life, as we know it."

When people come to get tested, they should stay in their vehicles. After the test, they will get instructions regarding next steps in the five to seven days until they get the results.

Those who have questions or need help can call the Baltimore County COVID-19 Hotline from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at 410-887-3816.

The clinic will be Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Rd., Timonium, MD 21093.

Related:

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