DETROIT – Sinai-Grace Hospital is offering free COVID-19 testing to Detroit residents on the upcoming weekends in partnership with a coalition led by the Detroit Association of Black Organizations (DABO).
The coalition has been working to offer free testing to residents in the city hit hardest by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in Michigan.
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As of 3 p.m. on May 12, Detroit has reported 9,897 COVID-19 cases and 1213 deaths. Wayne County -- the county most affected by the pandemic in Michigan -- has reported 18,255 COVID-19 cases and 2,117 deaths, which includes Detroit’s numbers.
COVID-19 DATA: Tracking cases, deaths and more in Michigan
Individuals can register to get tested for COVID-19 for free by calling 313-706-2750 or 313-923-1655. If phone lines are busy, interested individuals can register by emailing testing@dabodetroitinc.com.
COVID-19 testing will be available on the following dates at the following locations and times:
- Saturday, May 16
- 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Sunday, May 17
- noon-4 p.m.
- Saturday, May 23
- 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Sunday, May 24
- Sheffield Center Complex
- noon-4 p.m.
- Saturday, May 30
- Sheffield Center Complex
- 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Sunday, May 31
- Sheffield Center Complex
- noon-4 p.m.
Other organizations involved in the coalition include The Disability Network Inc., Wayne County Community College District, Comerica Bank, the United Auto Workers, Premier Quality Health Center Inc. and Platform Healthcare Solutions.
Read our latest news on the COVID-19 pandemic here.
How COVID-19 Spreads
Person-to-person spread
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Can someone spread the virus without being sick?
- People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest).
- Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this occurring with this new coronavirus, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
How easily the virus spreads
How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.
Prevention & Treatment
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Click here for more guidelines from the CDC.
People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Question about coronavirus? Ask Dr. McGeorge here.