DeKalb County to distribute thousands of at-home rapid COVID tests
DeKalb County officials said they will distribute 5,000 at-home COVID-19 rapid tests starting at 9 a.m. on Dec. 30.
DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond and DeKalb County Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson addressed residents via Zoom on Dec. 29 to announce that that county was able to secure the sought-after tests by “scouring the internet and contacting partners in health care.” The holiday season brought with it a wave of people searching for at-home tests or waiting in line for hours to be tested throughout the county.
“There is frustration and anxiety due to the shortage of testing resources and options throughout DeKalb County and across our state and nation,” said Thurmond. “Long lines and very limited at-home test options have left our citizens in a desperate search.”
The at-home tests will be distributed at three locations throughout the county:
- The Gallery at South DeKalb Mall located at 2801 Candler Road in Decatur
- North DeKalb Mall located at 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy in Decatur
- Plaza Fiesta located at 4166 Buford Hwy NE in Atlanta
One test per person will be distributed until supplies run out, stated officials. Much like the county-organized vaccine events, those seeking a test will not need to leave their vehicles. Thurmond said each COVID-19 care bag will contain an at-home test, masks and hand sanitizer.
The tests were paid for using the American Rescue Plan funds designated to the county, stated Thurmond. He also said he hopes to secure more at-home tests and organize more giveaways into 2022.
“We want to help our residents keep safe and reduce frustration and anxiety with these kits. We want to help our citizens not just through the (holiday season) but into 2022,” said Thurmond.
