Test Iowa Program to End in July

The curve might not be completely flattened but people are getting their Coronavirus vaccines and the testing process for the virus will be coming to a close in Iowa.

When will my nearest Test Iowa site close?

As of July 16, all sites will reportedly be closed. According to the Cedar Rapids Gazette, the Test Iowa program will be phasing out its free testing sites across the state, and be completely shut down by the end of next month.

• June 23: Pottawattamie County

• June 24: Linn County

• June 25: Black Hawk County

• July 16: Polk County

• July 16: Scott County

Why are they deciding to discontinue the Test Iowa program now?

About 644,000 people have so far taken advantage of the free Test Iowa program since it started in April 2020. Testing is currently at its lowest since then, with about 400 free COVID-19 tests currently conducted on an average day. November 23, 2020 was the peak of single-day testing, when 6,700 people visited the sites across Iowa.

A low current positivity rate of 1.68 percent was also cited as a reason for the closure.

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Where will I be able to get tested now?

You will need to contact Linn County Public Health (LCPH) or your personal healthcare provider. State health officials continue to strongly encourage getting vaccinated against Coronavirus as the current best way to prevent it or reduce its impact.

The state is working through details on a new program to offer at-home COVID testing, and more information will come soon.