National Guard COVID-19 testing site reopens in Racine amid uptick in cases

RACINE COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The National Guard COVID-19 testing site in Racine reopened Thursday, Sept. 16. This comes after the Racine public health administrator says COVID cases are on the rise. 

Chad Zickus was one of the first few people in line to get a COVID test at Festival Hall.

"Even if you feel like you don’t have it or not, if you go get tested just to make sure."

Racine Health Administrator Dottie-Kay Bowersox says 167 cases were reported within the last week.

"Our case read is 210 per 100,000. We are in the high category."

The race to get people vaccinated and tested is still in full effect.

"We're urging individuals to get tested if they've been in close contact with someone who has been confirmed positive and if they're symptomatic," Bowersox said. 

It's encouraged to pre-register before heading to the site. Twelve months and older can be tested for COVID-19 and you don't need to be symptomatic to get tested.  

There is a drive-thru with a walk-up option. The testing site also comes in handy for those required to take weekly COVID tests or those who work in close contact with others.

"I coach sports, so if you're around people, it's good to get tested and make sure you’re fine," Zickus said. 

Bowersox worried about the fall and winter season and the foreseeable numbers.

"We're concerned about influenza season starting, we concerned about the schools being open and then we have the holidays coming. Again, urging everyone to get vaccinated who's eligible."

The testing site is located at Festival Park Hall, 5 5th Street in Racine. 

Testing will continue every week through Dec. 13. It will be open only Mondays and Thursdays between noon and 6 p.m. 

Testing will not be available on the following holidays

• Columbus Day – Monday, Oct. 11
• Veterans Day – Thursday, Nov. 11
• Thanksgiving – Thursday, Nov. 25