Through a partnership with the Texas Department of Health and Human Services, along with the Texas Army National Guard, two free COVID-19 testing locations will be available in Hays County on May 10. One location will be in Wimberley, the other in Dripping Springs. Testing at both sites will take place that day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and an appointment is required.
Based on the protocols for this program, specific site locations will be shared with those who register, go through a health screening and receive an appointment. Individuals will need to be screened in advance and can only be tested if they receive an appointment.
On May 9, 24 hours prior to the test sites opening, the county will provide the website and call number for registration.
“We are pleased to bring free COVID-19 testing to our residents,” Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said. “We have been working diligently to expand testing overall in the county. We chose these sites in Wimberley and Dripping Springs to ensure residents in those areas have the opportunity to be tested.”
According to Hays County Local Health Department Epidemiologist Eric Schneider, pre-registrations begins May 9 and individuals will go through a health screening.
“The health screening will check for symptoms, including fever/chills, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, sore throat, headaches, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and nasal congestion,” he said.
The sites were selected following discussion among Hays County Commissioners during last Tuesday’s meeting. Commissioner Walt Smith, Pct. 4, said indigent and uninsured residents on the western side of the county can utilize this option.
“We have been able to coordinate testing sites up and down the I-35 corridor, in Buda, Kyle and San Marcos,” he said. “The one-day testing sites in Dripping Springs and Wimberley will fulfill a need that hasn’t previously been available.”
Testing at the two sites will be conducted by the Texas Army National Guard.
“Gov. Abbott authorized the use of the Texas National Guard troops for this testing, which is occurring at locations around the state,” said Tammy Crumley, director of Countywide Services. “We don’t want anyone to be alarmed at seeing uniformed military personnel in their city.”
On May 9, Hays County will provide the website and phone number for registration. That information will be available on the county’s website, along with Facebook and Twitter, beginning at 8 a.m. that day.
Schneider reminded everyone that these testing sites are not for the general public and that individuals must have an appointment.
“Hays County does not have any drive-up/drive-thru testing sites,” he said.
A list of COVID-19 testing sites in other parts of Hays County, all of which require a health screening and an appointment, are on the county’s official website.
