Post-Holiday Surge? COVID-19 Testing Centers Swamped

Outside Starlite Center in Brooklyn Park, a line of people wrapped around the building in freezing temperatures waiting to get tested for COVID-19. The Minnesota Department of Health testing location is one of the busiest in the state and is having a hard time keeping up with high demand following the holidays. In some instances, waits took out a good chunk of the morning.

“I thought it was going be over in 30 minutes, but it ended up being more like two hours,” said Isla Kerann, who was among the many who waited to get tested.

For those fortunate to have an appointment, the wait was just under 30 minutes.

“We were together with some friends on New Year’s Eve, thought it would be a good idea to get tested,” said Luke Day. “Came here about 20 after 10 and it’s a quarter to 11 and we’re out of here.”

Others who walked in for a rapid test say be prepared to wait a long time.

“I chose to work from home today because I do have some symptoms. I’m hoping I have a negative result so I can go back to the office,” said Lisa Gebhard.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 6,780 new COVID-19 cases on Monday and 48 deaths.

Some people grew frustrated because even with appointments, they were told to wait in line. The run on COVID testing is also causing some to wonder why more testing sites can’t be opened.

“I think they should have more centers because everyday cases keep increasing,” said Alphonzo Massaley.

People wait to get tested outside Starlite Center in Brooklyn Park

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