There will be free drive-through COVID-19 testing today and Monday in Kona, and Monday in Hilo.  The County is urging people to get tested, especially if they have symptoms, but even if they do not.  Around 40% of the people who get COVID-19 have no symptoms (i.e.are asymptomatic).

In Kona, today and Monday, the testing is by Ali’i Health at Keauhou Shopping Center, behind Regal Cinemas, from 9 until noon.  Enter via the access road across from Sam Choy’s Restaurant.

On Monday, there will be drive-through testing at the Hilo Civic Auditorium from 9 til noon.  Please enter from Kuawa Street entrance.

No insurance is necessary to be tested, but please bring your insurance card if you have one.  There is no co-pay for individuals being tested.

Please be sure to wear a face covering at all times, and observe social distancing.

The Big Island has had an increase in cases over the past two weeks.   The County says many of the cases are related to gatherings where people did not wear masks.  The County has done “spot testing” earlier this week at Yukio Okutsu Veterans Home and at South Kohala at Ke Kumu Housing.  On Saturday, tomorrow, a spot test, which is not open to the public, is scheduled in North Kona at the La`ilani Apartments.