Medical experts pushing COVID-19 testing during holidays

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) —With the holiday season in full swing medical experts are pushing middle georgia residents to get tested for COVID-19 after the Thanksgiving holiday .

Officials say if you attended a gathering last week or will attend a gathering in the upcoming month they say you should get a COVID  test.

Doctors say Macon-Bibb county is in the redzone for the number of covid cases reported. Site Lead for Top Dog Solutions in Macon Kendra Walker says a number of people got tested Monday but encourages those who have not-to do so.  

“We’ve been really trying to hit that 100 mark so we will encourage everybody to come out and get tested, we are here. It’s free,” said walker.

Walker says Monday morning they’ve seen around 40 to 50 people which is a surge for them. She believes other center’s will see a surge as well especially around or after the holidays. 

If you plan on attending any gathering for the holiday season, medical professionals say you should get tested. They say all you have to do is find any drive-thru COVID testing center drive up, open your window and get ready for the nasal swab.  

“I would say come in prior to going to a gathering so you’ll know your results,” said Walker. 

Walker says get tested again a day or two after the event or gathering. 

“I have seen people who come in here with symptoms and they test negative but then I have people who come in like I’m fine but then they test positive,” said Walker.

Walker says kids should also be a part of testing because many children are asymptomatic. She says and don’t worry, the nasal swab will not damage the nasal cavity due to multiple tests. 

“Don’t be afraid, this is something that’s going to help you and your family,” said Walker.

If you need to get tested-top dog solutions are open in Macon from Sunday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

According to Walker it will take up to 72 hours to receive results and longer if testing is done on a weekend.