Testing remains a very important tool in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has announced it is scheduled to continue offering free community testing events.

According to a news release, some sites across the state have an appointment time and require pre-registration. Family and friends are able to assist in registration of others needing testing. If the sites does not require pre-registration, having a state issued identification card available at the testing site will speed up the process immensely; however, no identification documents are required.

In the KMMO listening area, the DHSS is scheduled to host a testing site at the Missouri State Fairgrounds at 2503 West 16th Street in Sedalia, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 9 and 16.

Health officials say the test used at these community testing events is a PCR test done by an anterior nares swab to determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Results will be available as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours from the event.

Note that during the next few months, it may be necessary to cancel a testing event due to inclement weather. Before heading to an event during these times, officials urge you to check and make sure the event has not been cancelled.

The phone number for the cancellation schedule is (417) 362-6398, or visit this link.