Tampa officials to close COVID-19 test site at Al Barnes Park due to low demand
TAMPA, Fla. - Tampa city officials plan to close the COVID-19 testing site at Al Barnes Park, citing a drop of new cases in Hillsborough County and lower demand for testing.
The city made the announcement Friday. Testing will still be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Oct. 31. PCR and rapid antigen tests are available at the site and appointments are not required.
The testing site was added at Al Barnes Park in mid-August when Florida was experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases.
"Although transmission of the COVID-19 virus continues to trend down in our community, we remind residents to continue to maintain healthy habits to protect you and your family," according to a statement by the city. "These include staying home when sick, washing your hands often, getting tested when exposed to a COVID-19 positive person and getting vaccinated to prevent serious illness from the COVID-19 virus."
Free COVID-19 testing may also be available at your local pharmacies, clinics and area hospitals. Over the counter at-home rapid tests are also available at some local pharmacies.
LINK: For more information about COVID-19 testing, visit: www.tampa.gov.
LINK: To find a COVID-19 vaccination site, visit: http://www.vaccines.gov.