NEWARK, Delaware (WPVI) -- Roughly 1,300 asymptomatic people were tested in a 48-hour continuous, free rapid COVID-19 testing event in Newark, Delaware.
Staff members at Newark Urgent Care Center reported about 10% tested positive.
"The individuals that are planning Thanksgiving activities next week, now they know," said Administrator Rob Lynn.
The line never let up and included students at nearby University of Delaware, who are about to go home for the holiday.
"It's been pretty extraordinary, and I think it really demonstrates the need," Lynn explained of the turnout.
It was like election night. As long as you were in line by 10 a.m., you could still get a nasal swab.
This event for asymptomatic people was organized by Newark Urgent Care in conjunction with the Delaware Department of Public Health and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.
"These are all people- as you said-have no symptoms and came here to be tested probably thinking they weren't going to be positive, but one in ten unfortunately are," Lynn said.
As COVID cases are on the rise, and while doctors urge access to testing is important, they say it is also important to continue to follow state restrictions and guidance.
"Please don't use testing as a reason for ignoring the recommendations," stated Dr. Billy Oglesby of Thomas Jefferson University Health.
Delaware Governor John Carney announced Tuesday additional restrictions for indoor and outdoor gatherings, indoor dining, and youth sports to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state.
The Colonial School District in Delaware says all schools will move to virtual learning on Monday, November 16, 2020.
A $5 million COVID-19 testing lab will soon be up and running at Delaware State University's Kirkwood Highway Campus in New Castle County as cases across the country soar.
U.S. regulators on Tuesday allowed emergency use of the first rapid coronavirus test that can be performed entirely at home and delivers results in 30 minutes.
Health experts are urging caution ahead of the holiday season, asking that you think twice about traveling - and getting unnecessary COVID-19 tests.
As COVID-19 cases continue to surge, consumers are stocking up, and grocery stores are responding. But before you go on a spending spree, there are some things to consider.
As the U.S. sees a nationwide spike in coronavirus cases, the Centers for Disease Control released new mask guidance. The latest update says wearing a face-covering doesn't just protect the people around you, but it also protects the wearer from incoming virus projectiles.
The CDC posted its most specific guidance yet on Thanksgiving Monday, which emphasizes that the safest option for the holiday is celebrating only with people in your household or taking extra precautions like wearing masks and keeping your distance if you celebrate with others.
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