Stay Protected! Get Tested Today at Howard County Health Department COVID Testing Centers
As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to spread, it becomes increasingly important to contain the virus by identifying and isolating infected individuals. Testing is a crucial tool in the fight against the pandemic, and the Howard County Health Department has taken active measures to ensure that residents have easy access to COVID-19 testing. In this blog article, we will explore the COVID-19 testing centers operated by the Howard County Health Department.
Why Should You Get Tested?
COVID-19 is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets. An infected individual can be asymptomatic and still spread the virus, making it difficult to track the spread of the disease. Getting tested not only helps to identify infected individuals but also helps to isolate the virus and reduce its spread. Early detection through testing can also help to prevent severe symptoms and potentially save lives.
Who Can Get Tested?
The Howard County Health Department offers COVID-19 testing to all residents, regardless of age, occupation, or insurance status. Testing is available to anyone who wishes to verify their COVID-19 status, regardless of exhibiting symptoms.
Where Can You Get Tested?
The Howard County Health Department operates several COVID-19 testing centers throughout the county. All testing locations are drive-thru, allowing individuals to remain in their vehicles throughout the testing process to maintain social distancing. Testing centers are open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Here is a list of the various testing centers:
– Columbia VEIP Center – 6340 Woodside Ct, Columbia, MD 21046
– Elkridge VEIP Center – 1450 South Rolling Road, Halethorpe, MD 21227
– Glenwood Community Center – 2400 Route 97, Cooksville, MD 21723
– North Laurel Community Center – 9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd, Laurel, MD 20723
– Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) – 721 E Ordnance Rd, Glen Burnie, MD 21060
How to Get Tested?
Testing at Howard County Health Department COVID testing centers is free. However, individuals must first complete the online screening questionnaire before arriving at the testing center. The questionnaire is available at www.howardcountymd.gov/coronavirus/gettested. After completing the questionnaire, a referral will be issued, which individuals must bring with them to the testing center.
Conclusion
In conclusion, COVID-19 testing is a crucial step in identifying and isolating infected individuals, and the Howard County Health Department has made it easy for residents to access testing. Testing is free, and all are encouraged to take advantage of the testing centers available to them. Remember, we are all in this together, and each step we take towards reducing the spread brings us closer to overcoming the pandemic.
