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Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment Resumes Free COVID-19 PCR Testing at Barnstable County Fairgrounds

MEDIA ALERT: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Information from Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment

August 25, 2021 (Barnstable, MA) – Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment will resume free COVID-19 PCR Testing at the Barnstable County Fairgrounds beginning Thursday, August 26, 2021.

Anyone who suspects they have been exposed to COVID-19 is urged to pursue testing. It’s important to note that the Delta variant, which is believed to be the predominant variant of COVID-19 in our region, typically tests positive between 3 to 5 days after exposure. Therefore, it is recommended that testing take place on day 4 following a suspected exposure.

Drive-through testing will take place on Thursdays and Sundays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the East Gate (off 151 near Ashumet Road). Anyone who is interested can register online at www.barnstablecountyhealth.org.Walk-ins will also be accepted.

Results will be available within 24-48 hours depending on the volume of tests being submitted for PCR analysis. Participants who receive a negative result will be notified via email. Participants who receive a positive result will be notified via phone by one of our nurses. Questions regarding testing or test results may be directed to our COVID-19 testing line at 774-330-3002.

As a reminder, Barnstable County also holds weekly vaccine clinics on Thursdays between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM at the Harborview Conference Room at the Barnstable County Complex in Barnstable Village. The clinics are free and open to everyone. Appointments can be made in advance at www.barnstablecountyhealth.organd walk-ins are welcome. Pfizer vaccine is offered to anyone 12+ while Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available for those who are 18+.

Identification and insurance are not required for vaccination. Other vaccination locations can be found at https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/.

ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY DERPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT: Established under a Special Act of the Legislature in 1926, the Barnstable County Department of Health & Environment (BCDHE) provides regional public health and environmental health services throughout the 15 towns comprising Barnstable County. The Department manages several environmental, public health, and homeland security grants funded through state and federal resources. The Department’s primary mission is to protect public health and the environment and promote the physical and mental health and well-being of Barnstable County residents.

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