State-run COVID-19 testing temporary closures from storm could impact testing data

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The arrival of Isaias forced Northeast Florida coronavirus testing sites to close down on Thursday.

Those sites included:

• Duval County: Home Depot at Regency, Legends Center and the Regency Square Mall
• Clay County: Target in Fleming Island
• Nassau: Target in Yulee

Action News Jax reporter Meghan Moriarty spoke with James Douglas on Tuesday. He found out he was potentially exposed to the virus Monday night. He said he worries those who were planning to get tested over the weekend may not come back now.

If people lose convenience, they could just say OK well maybe later,” Douglas said. “Then later never comes.”

Sen. Marco Rubio tweeted about testing numbers Monday.

The Florida Department of Health saw nearly 2,000 fewer people get tested statewide, between Aug.1 and Aug.2. Prior to shutting down, the Regency Square Mall site tested 1,003 people for the virus and performed 106 antibody tests.

The Regency site is now open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Cox Media Group