Contacts:
Khalilah LeGrand, Ed.D., (402) 853-1320; khalilah.legrand@nebraska.gov
Omaha, NE – The New Era Baptist State Convention of Nebraska, Inc. and the Omaha Housing Authority and Charles Drew Health Center, Inc. have partnered with DHHS to provide free COVID-19 testing through Test Nebraska in North Omaha. Testing will take place Friday, September 4 and Saturday, September 5 from 10 AM-2PM at the Eagles Nest/Victory Church Rear Parking Lot – 5775 Sorensen Pkwy, Omaha, NE 68152.
Registration through test Nebraska takes less than 10 minutes. Visit Testnebraska.com or TestNebraska/es for Spanish. Pre-registration is not required as on-site registration is available.
“Testing is so very important in the fight against COVID-19. Having this event just before the Labor Day holiday will help to remind people that they must remain vigilant – they need to know their COVID status, practice social distancing as much as possible and wear their masks," said Doris Lassiter, Health Ministry Director, New Era Baptist State Convention of Nebraska, Inc. “This is a wonderful way to help those in our community as we know they have been disproportionately impacted by this virus. The first time we partnered in July, we tested 768 people, so we are hoping to see a great showing this time as well."
In addition to testing, attendees will receive information on what to expect after testing, free masks, Census 2020 and voter registration materials as well as information about Charles Drew Health Center, Inc.
Participants should be advised that while average turnaround time for Test Nebraska is less than 72 hours, results may be delayed due to the Labor Day holiday.
According to State data available on the DHHS data dashboard, minorities are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Widespread testing is a proven way to slow the spread of COVID-19. Testing also provides important data to track the spread of the virus, find a cure and save lives.
Any resident who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, coughing, and shortness of breath) is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider, local health department, or complete a Test Nebraska assessment online and schedule a free test. However, many COVID-19 patients may be asymptomatic and are still encouraged to get tested.