Shawnee County Health Department offers Drive-Through COVID-19 testing

The Shawnee County Health Department (SCHD) in partnership with USD 501 – Topeka Public Schools is now offering Drive-Through COVID-19 testing. The service is offered by appointment for uninsured individuals at no cost to the participant.

The Drive-Through testing is available at Highland Park High School, 2424 SE California Ave. starting Tuesday, May 26th, during the following hours:

Tuesdays – 10:00AM to 2:00PM
Thursdays – 3:00PM to 7:00PM

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Appointments are required and can be made by calling 1.785.251.4949. Supplies and appointment times are limited, and the service is only available for uninsured individuals living in Shawnee County who are experiencing two or more symptoms (within the last 14 days) of COVID-19 as classified by KDHE guidelines:

• fever of 100.4 F or higher
  • chills
  • rigors
  • myalgia (muscle pain or aches)
  • malaise
  • headache
  • sore throat
  • lower respiratory illness (cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing)
  • new olfactory and taste disorders
  • diarrhea

Drive-Through testing results will be available within 3-5 business days. If the test is positive, the patient will receive a phone call at the number provided when the appointment was scheduled. If the test result is negative, the patient will receive a letter in the mail at the address provided when the appointment was scheduled.

“The Shawnee County Health Department continues to look for ways to expand testing accessibility to our most at-risk and vulnerable populations,” stated Linda Ochs, Director of Shawnee County Health Department, “Our hope is that this partnership with Topeka Public Schools and any future partnerships will make testing more available for individuals who need it.”

Monday-Friday: 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Saturdays: 10:00AM to 2:00PM
Sundays: 2:00PM to 5:00PM

As a reminder, human coronaviruses like the one that causes COVID-19 are most commonly spread through coughing and sneezing, personal contact like shaking hands, and touching a surface with the virus and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

There are simple steps everyone can take to help prevent spreading them:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick and only leave home for essential items.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For questions about the testing process, visit the website at www.shawneehealth.org or call 1.785.251.4949 during the following hours:

–Lee Hartman | Metro Voice

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