Hillsborough County to Expand Point-in-Time Testing for COVID-19
Hillsborough County, Fla. (April 27, 2020) - Hillsborough County is expanding its point-in-time testing for COVID-19 coronavirus in order to get a clearer picture of how many residents may currently have the virus.
Hillsborough County Emergency Management Director Tim Dudley made the announcement to members of the Emergency Policy Group during their semiweekly meeting this afternoon. Previously, pre-screening was required of persons wishing to be tested at one of the four public testing sites, and callers were asked if they were exhibiting specific symptoms. With the expansion of the testing, residents who feel unwell or are generally concerned about the virus can request an appointment.
Testing is being offered at Raymond James Stadium and three Community Resource Centers in east Tampa, Plant City, and SouthShore. Persons wishing to schedule an appointment for a free COVID-19 test can call (813) 272-5900 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The call center will provide a confirmation number for the testing and further instructions. Neither insurance nor a doctor's note is required for the test. Persons being tested should bring a photo ID with name and date of birth.
Public health officials who are advising the EPG have recommended additional testing as crucial to making decisions about reopening the County, protecting vulnerable populations, and avoiding a second wave of cases.
The Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group is comprised of three County Commissioners, the mayors from the cities of Plant City, Tampa, and Temple Terrace, the Sheriff, and Chairman of the School Board. Authority is granted by Article 8 of the Florida Constitution, Section 125.66 and Chapter 252, Florida Statutes. Hillsborough County enacted Hillsborough County Code of Ordinances and Laws Chapter 22, Article II, Sections 22-23 in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the County's residents during declared emergencies.
The next EPG meeting is scheduled Thursday, April 30 at 1:30 p.m.
Other Hillsborough County News
The County's first virtual Minority Certification with Hillsborough County workshop is scheduled for Thursday, April 30 at 10 a.m. Attendees can learn about eligibility requirements, documentation, and the process for submitting an application for certification with Hillsborough County. Interested businesses can register in advance at HCFLGov.net/MWSBE, under the Upcoming Events section.
Get Connected. Stay Alert.
For more information on COVID-19, and any other potential emergency in the region, visit HCFLGov.net/StaySafe and sign up for the HCFL Alert system. Additionally, you can follow Hillsborough County on social media at Facebook, Twitter, and Nextdoor for updates. For general County information, call (813) 272-5900, the County's main information line.