Health & Fitness

Worcester Expands Coronavirus Test Events Before Thanksgiving

Worcester officials want residents to get tested before heading to any family gatherings this year.

Neal McNamara's profile picture
Neal McNamara, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge
Worcester will host four coronavirus testing events the week of Nov. 16.
Worcester will host four coronavirus testing events the week of Nov. 16. (Neal McNamara/Patch)

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester will expand the weekly slate of free coronavirus testing events ahead of Thanksgiving. Officials want residents to get tested before traveling to attend any holiday events, either in or out of the state.

This week's expansion includes a testing site at Worcester State University. Each event will also provide test-takers with free masks. Here are the events lined up for this week:

  • Worcester State University, 486 Chandler St. — Nov. 16, noon to 2 p.m.
  • Mercantile Center, 201 Commercial St. — Nov. 17, 19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Worcester's coronavirus situation has grown worse recently. The number of new cases almost doubled between Nov. 5 and Nov. 12, according to city officials. There are also many more people being treated for the virus at hospitals across Worcester.

Worcester health officials have recommended residents consider skipping Thanksgiving and celebrate online instead.

More from Worcester