Sonoma County Increases “Pop Up” Virus Testing

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As part of an effort to reach underserved and vunerable local populations, the Sonoma County public health office began this past week to take coronavirus testing out into the community, setting up one day “pop up” sites to reach those who may be at an increased risk.

This testing is being conducted at senior centers where age and underlying conditions leave residents at greater risk, and in other places like homeless shelters where at risk people can be reached.

On Friday, the county will take testing to the Graton Day Labor Center, targeting the Latinx community, and will be conducting virus testing on a walk up basis to anyone who wants it.

Statistics show the Latinx community nationwide is at a greater risk of contracting the coronavirus than most others. Here in Sonoma County, Latinx residents reportedly represent more than half of all confirmed cases despite making up just over a quarter of the county’s population.

Sonoma County Health Officer Dr. Sanduri Mase says the pop up testing sites are going to be a key tool used in the coming weeks.