Norfolk Community Leaders Unite To Address Coronavirus Testing Stigma

Press release from the City of Norfolk:

June 17, 2020

Norfolk, Va – Recent data has shown African-Americans and other minority groups are at a greater risk for severe illness from the coronavirus. As a result, community leaders of faith-based organizations in Norfolk have come together to create this YouTube video to encourage the community to get tested. The video shows local leaders getting tested, disproving any misconceptions about the test; the coronavirus test is safe, painless, and is completed in just a few seconds. It is highly recommended to get tested if an individual has symptoms or may have been exposed to someone with the virus. Testing, along with other public health recommendations such as wearing a cloth face covering in public, social distancing, and proper hand washing, will help reduce the spread of coronavirus in the community.

The Norfolk Department of Public Health, in partnership with Sentara Health Systems and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, will offer a free walk-up and drive-thru coronavirus testing event on Thursday, June 18th from 8:15am-Noon at 201 East Little Creek Road, Norfolk (Workforce Development). Testing is available for any individual ages 3 and up. Limited tests are available; appointments are recommended.

This press release was produced by the City of Norfolk. The views expressed here are the author’s own.