By Beacon Staff
Des Moines County has recorded a dozen new cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) since Monday, just as Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the opening of a drive-thru coronavirus test site Wednesday (May 27) in Burlington.
The drive-thru test site will be across from Great River Medical Center in West Burlington at the Des Moines County Fairgrounds (next to Southeastern Community College). The entrance is on Gear Avenue.
On Thursday, Reynolds echoed an earlier statement by President Donald Trump announcing that anyone who wants a (coronavirus) test can get one. But you must take an online health assessment at www.TestIowa.com beforehand. Assessment questions include symptoms, exposure to COVID-19, occupation, and travel.
After the assessment, those still interested in taking a test will be directed to make an appointment by telephone. Appointments will be accepted beginning Tuesday, May 26. Currently, the closest place to get a COVID-19 test is at Eagle View Health Center in Oquawka, Ill.
The test, which takes only a few minutes to complete, consists of a swab inserted into the back of the nasal cavity. The swab is sent to the state hygienic laboratory, and results are usually available with 48 to 72 hours.
Des Moines County now has 52 reported cases, with 30 people listed as recovered. The death toll remains at one for the county.
A total of 16,435 positive cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Iowa, and 8,917 have recovered. The death toll currently stands at 424, which includes 17 deaths between 11 a.m. on Thursday and 11 a.m. on Friday.
So far, one in 26 Iowans has been tested, totaling 119,604.