Health

Drive-thru coronavirus testing sites open in Worcester County

WORCESTER, Mass. — In Worcester County, health officials say there are currently 14 confirmed coronavirus cases, up 30%.

“Take this 100% seriously," said Worcester City Manager Ed Augustus. “Keep your distance and if you don’t have to go out, don’t go out.”

On Friday, the first of five homeless shelters opened up at North High School.

“We are trying to wrap our arms around the most fragile, whether the homeless, or elderly, or our kids. We have over 40 sites that are feeding our kids,” said Augustus.

City officials are also making sure bars and restaurants are following all protocols and say harsh penalties will be handed down if they are not.

“To everyone’s benefit, everyone needs to adhere to this. We are going to look at taking people’s licenses away if they don’t follow the rules,” he said.

Drive-thru testing sites are open at Saint Vincent’s Hospital and UMass Memorial, with a limited amount of supplies.

Over in nearby Auburn, fire officials say they’re even buying their own protective gear.

“The supply stock is very low. We bought goggles and have them washed after each call,” said Fire Chief Glenn Johnson.

Firefighters in many communities are changing their shifts so they can stay protected. City leaders in Worcester are also asking the public to do the right thing and check on your neighbors.

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