How To Get Free Coronavirus Test Before, After Thanksgiving

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — With coronavirus rates rising in Virginia and Thanksgiving just around the corner, many in the region are planning ahead to ensure health and safety during the holidays.

In an effort to help families prevent the spread of the virus during holiday gatherings, the Rappahannock Area Health District will offer free coronavirus testing before and after the holiday.

All upcoming testing events will be held in a drive-thru setup and are open to anyone over the age of 16. Results will be available in approximately three days, the health district said.

The district notes even people who receive a negative test result for the coronavirus should be cautious on Thanksgiving as they could go on to develop COVID-19 after being tested.

Testing is available as follows:

• Nov. 18 — 4 to 7 p.m., Stafford Hospital
• Nov. 21 — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., corner of William St. and Sunken Rd., Fredericksburg
• Nov. 23 — 4 to 7 p.m., Stafford Hospital
• Nov. 30 — 1 to 4 p.m., Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center
• Dec. 2 — 4 to 7 p.m., Stafford Hospital
• Dec. 4 — 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., Dixon Park, Fredericksburg
• Dec. 5 — 9 a.m. to noon, King George Elementary
• Dec. 7 — 1 to 4 p.m., Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center
• Dec. 9 — 4 to 7 p.m., Stafford Hospital
• Dec. 11 — 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., Dixon Park, Fredericksburg

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with the Rappahannock Health District, discourage mixing households during Thanksgiving this year, instead opting for socially distant outdoor gatherings or digital events.

“We are strongly discouraging multiple households from gathering indoors this Thanksgiving, as this increases the risk for individuals to contract the virus or spread it to loved ones.” said Dr. Denise Bonds, Acting Health Director for RAHD. “We instead recommend people find creative ways to celebrate safely this holiday, either through enjoying turkey together over Zoom, dropping off food to family members, or moving celebrations outside with masks and distancing measures in place.”

Anyone hoping to get tested at an upcoming event is encouraged to call 540-899-4797 and register in advance. Registration can also be completed online or on-site at a testing location.