Florida Division of Emergency Management Opening COVID-19 Test Site Friday.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) will be offering COVID-19 testing beginning Friday, August 14 at the Volusia County Fairgrounds in DeLand. 

Testing will be available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday, and the site will be closed Wednesdays. To save time, an appointment is recommended and can be made online at www.doineedacovid19test.com/.

Individuals must print and bring their test voucher and a picture ID with them on the day of their test. Individuals who do not make an appointment in advance can register on-site via their smart device. Public access computers are available free of charge at Volusia County public libraries for cardholders. 

The testing site will be a drive-up site that offers both viral and antibody testing. 

The viral test will use a self-administered nasal swab, that allows you to swab your nose while in your vehicle. Trained medical professionals will supervise the process. No symptoms are required to receive a viral test. Test results are expected in 2 to 5 days. Testing is free and available for individuals five years of age and older. Adults 18 years and older are required to provide picture identification. Child consent forms are required to be filled out for those between five years old and 17 years old. 

Antibody testing requires a blood draw, but test results are available in 30-minutes. Testing is free and available for individuals 18 years of age and older with photo ID. Only 200 antibody tests are available each day.  

 The County of Volusia is coordinating with FDEM and assisting with logistics to aid in the opening. The Volusia County Fair Association Board of Directors and General Manager Ronnie Hull are permitting the use of their property for the site. The site is expected to operate for up to 4 weeks, pending demand.