SLO County expands COVID-19 testing criteria as backlog decreases
The San Luis Obispo County Health Department is again freeing up coronavirus testing criteria after a month of asking only symptomatic people to get a COVID-19 test, according to a news release.
A backlog in test results and limited availability of testing appointments caused the county to change its testing criteria.
However, as demand has eased and test results have returned more quickly, the county may begin widening its criteria once more, the release said.
The county is still not asking for everyone to get coronavirus tested. However, people with coronavirus symptoms and people who may have been exposed to COVID-19, even those without symptoms, are encouraged to get tested, the release said.
“If you think you have been exposed, stay home and make an appointment online to get tested at least five days after exposure,” county public health officer Dr. Penny Borenstein said in the release. “Please also stay home until you receive your test results. We don’t want anyone unknowingly spreading COVID-19.”
Testing is also available for anyone who is considered to have a higher risk of coronavirus, which includes the following:
- Anyone over the age of 65 years old,
- Anyone with chronic medical conditions that increase the risk of severe COVID-19,
- Essential workers, and
- Anyone who lives in or works at a congregate living facility, like a jail or nursing home.
Where to get a COVID-19 test
A pop-up testing location will be open through Aug. 20, at Pavilion on the Lake, 9315 Pismo Ave. in Atascadero.
Free COVID-19 testing is available at ongoing sites in Atascadero, Grover Beach and San Luis Obispo.
Atascadero: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday until August 20. Pavilion on the Lake, 9315 Pismo Avenue
- Grover Beach: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Ramona Garden Park, 993 Ramona Ave.
- San Luis Obispo: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Veterans Memorial Hall, 801 Grand Ave.
Testing is available through private healthcare providers, urgent care centers and the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Lab.
Visit ReadySLO.org for the latest public health updates and recommendations.
To make an appointment, visit emergencySLO.org/testing; you can register by phone at 888-634-1123.
The county continues to ask that people limit large social gatherings and wear face coverings in public spaces when physical distancing can’t be maintained, in accordance with a state mandate issued by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
