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Hayward free testing center opens to long line of cars
Rob Roth reports.
HAYWARD, Calif (KTVU) - A free COVID-19 testing site in Hayward that opened on Monday as broadened the criteria for those who qualify.
The facility is located at Hayward Fire Station #7 on Huntwood Avenue and operated by firefighters and medical professionals seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
When the site first launched only people with COVID-19 symptoms, first responders and healthcare workers with suspected recent exposure to the virus were eligible for the free test.
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Hayward to open free coronavirus testing site
Elissa Harrington reports.
However, the city has expanded the rules to include any of the following:
-Fever above 100 degrees
-Shortness of breath or other respiratory symptoms
-Recent travel to Europe or Asia
-Recent exposure to confirmed or suspected coronavirus;
-Other chronic diseases or conditions, such as blood disorders, kidney or liver disease, diabetes, heart, lung or neurological disease, and compromised immune system
-Over the age of 65
-Currently or recently pregnant
-Homeless
The test is free to the public, no matter where they live or immigration status.
A referral from a doctor is not needed, but people must first go through a 2-step screening process, before being administered the test, which involves swabbing of the nasal cavities and back of the throat.