BC to hold COVID-19 Testing on Panorama Campus 9/22/20

Friday, September 18, 2020

On Tuesday, September 22, 2020, the Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force, in collaboration with Kern County Public Health Services Department and the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will host a free COVID-19 mobile test site on the Bakersfield College Panorama campus (1801 Panorama Dr). The self-swab tests are less invasive and will be available for all who pre-register online prior to the event at https://doineedacovid19test.com.

“BC's commitment to serving students and the local community remains as strong as ever during these times,” said Bakersfield College's Director of Communications and Community Relations, Norma Rojas-Mora. “We are proud to be a community institution and a place where our friends, families, and neighbors seek education and opportunities for wellness. We are grateful to be an important part of the solution as members of the Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force.”

The Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force aims to educate local residents about the combination of actions and behaviors that prevent COVID-19 transmission and works to find solutions to the disproportionate social and economic impact on the Latino community.

Jay Tamsi, President/CEO of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is an advocate for residents and local businesses. He says, “COVID has underscored the social and health inequities that put certain communities at an increased risk.  It is our responsibility to provide solutions, making testing easily accessible and affordable in safe places.  This testing opportunity in the high propensity, east side of town is important and we are pleased that Bakersfield College has provided the safe space to make this possible.  This is a fitting way to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month and continue our mission of looking out for the well-being of our community.”

Kern County Public Health Department Director, Matt Constantine, is pleased to see community driven efforts to increase awareness and reduce the spread of COVID-19. He says, “It's great to see local groups, such as the Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force, work to move Kern County towards a safe and rapid reopening our community.  We all have a role in preventing further infections. We are in this together.”

The testing site will be located on the Bakersfield College Panorama campus in the parking lot on the corner of Haley St. and University. Those needing a test are asked to pre-register online at  http://doineedacovid19test.com and bring their printed appointment voucher. Walk-up testing will be limited.

The Bakersfield College campus remains closed to the general public and is only offering essential courses with strict protocols and guidelines.

Story picked up by: 
ABC23: Bakersfield College to host mobile COVID-19 testing on Panorama campus
ABC23: Bakersfield College offering free COVID-19 testing Sept. 22, limited walk-ins
The Bakersfield Californian: Free COVID-19 mobile testing site to be held at Bakersfield College on Tuesday
KBAK: BC will host free COVID-19 mobile test site Tuesday