Town Announces New Location for Free COVID-19 Testing for Residents

Special to the Transcript

Town Manager Austin Faison and Public Health Director Meredith Hurley announce the free COVID-19 testing for residents will now be conducted six days a week at the McKenna Basketball Courts.

As of Tuesday, Winthrop has 380 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Twenty four residents have died, 341 residents have recovered from the disease and 14 additional residents are in isolation with suspected cases.

As of Wednesday, Sept. 9, the average case rate for Winthrop has been 8.7 cases per 100,00 residents in the last two weeks, an overall increase from the prior rate. During this time, over 2,600 tests have been administered as well.

Due to this case rate, the Commonwealth continues to identify Winthrop as a “high risk” community for COVID-19. In response to the designation by the state, Winthrop officials have partnered with state leaders to establish a “Stop the Spread” testing site six days a week at the McKenna Basketball Courts.

All community members are urged to take part in the free COVID-19 testing now available at the McKenna Basketball Courts, 5 Walden St. Previously, free testing was being offered behind the E.B. Newton School.

Testing is available at this site on the following days and times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 2-7 p.m. (drive-through)

Tuesday and Thursday from 2-7 p.m. (walk-up)

Testing providers are able to provide information in English and Spanish.

“This testing will help provide us with an accurate picture of the prevalence of the virus in our community and allow us to formulate a plan to best stop the spread,” Hurley said. “We strongly encourage all residents to get tested if possible, and thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we navigate through this challenging time.”

Residents should also take the necessary safety precautions to reduce the spread of the virus, such as wearing a face mask or covering when in public and maintaining a social distance of 6 feet from those outside your household.

Winthrop residents are reminded to visit WinthropCOVID19.com, which serves as a dedicated town resource for information on the pandemic.