Drive-thru testing for COVID-19 is now available in Amarillo.
According to a press release from the City of Amarillo, individuals experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 can call the Amarillo Public Health Department at 806-378-6300. If those symptoms warrant a test, you will be directed to the drive-thru facility for testing.
This service being offered is in partnership with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
“We’ve been working around the clock for several days to get these tests in place and the facility set up for this program,” said Amarillo Mayor Ginger Nelson. “We are finally seeing a good supply of tests coming into our region, and we want to get them out to those that need them as quickly as possible.”
The city hopes to operate the facility from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, depending on the continuing availability of tests. Any time the facility is not operating, public health staff members will still be available to assist callers with alternatives.
“We’re very excited to see testing options increasing throughout the region,” said Amarillo Director of Public Health Casie Stoughton. “Our staff and our great partners at Texas Tech have been waiting for this moment. We’re ready to go.”
Potter County, the Amarillo Fire Department, and the Amarillo Police Department are also providing assistance with the drive-thru testing process.
As of Friday, 12 total COVID-19 cases had been reported to Amarillo Public Health (APH), with two in Potter County and three in Randall County. The other seven were outside of the APH district. Information about those cases can be found at The Texas Department of Health and Human Services website.
Amarillo officials are reminding people to do the following to protect themselves and others from COVID-19:
- Stay home. It may be inconvenient to stay home, but staying home is the best way to beat the spread of this disease. Remember: This isn’t just about you getting sick, it’s also about protecting the most vulnerable in our city, from grandparents to those fighting cancer.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue or the crook of your bent arm. Preventing droplets from reaching others will help keep us all healthy.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Frequent hand washing can help protect people.
- Avoid touching your face. Touching your mouth, nose or eyes can help transfer the virus from your hands.
- Stay at least six feet away from others in the community. Social distancing can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Go to the city's Amarillo Alerts page to get the latest information on what’s happening in our community.
