For the Tomahawk Leader

MERRILL – The Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) announced on Thursday, Feb. 10 that it will provide PCR COVID-19 testing to the public Mondays through Fridays at the Lincoln County Service Center, 801 N. Sales St., Merrill.

Testing will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. each day beginning Monday, Feb. 14.

Appointments are required, and no walk-ins will be accepted. Limited appointment slots are available. To pre-register, visit www.bit.ly/3HNNSfo or call 715-539-2584.

Children must be accompanied by a guardian. Masks are required. The testing events are only available to individuals who live or work in Wisconsin.

Testing is intended for individuals 12 months and older who have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

“COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, loss of taste/smell, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, body aches, diarrhea, vomiting or nausea, chills, and muscle aches,” LCHD stated.

LCHD said individuals receiving a test should be prepared to wait in their vehicle and either text or call the phone number provided at registration and at the parking stall assigned to COVID-19 testing prior to entering the building.

“Please note that anyone tested is required to stay home until test results come back,” LCHD stated.

Test results will be provided via email or phone by the state of Wisconsin within two to five days. If results are not received within that time frame, call the Wisconsin COVID-19 Results line at 866-419-6988.

To find other testing locations, visit www.co.lincoln.wi.us/health/page/where-can-you-get-tested.

Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-19 tests through the federal government online at www.covidtests.gov or by calling 1-800-232-0233.

For more information on COVID-19 testing, call LCHD’s COVID-19 Testing Hotline 715-539-2584 or email [email protected].