Screening and testing for the coronavirus is set to continue Friday at the Cajundome.
Lafayette Consolidated Government said they screened 200 people today, less than on Wednesday, but more were tested for COVID-19.
107 people were tested for the coronavirus today. Those tests were sent for confirmation and the results should be available in 7-10 days. Now, between yesterday and today, nearly 200 people are being asked to self-quarantine.
Early this morning, dozens of people funneled into the drive-thru screening and testing at the Cajundome.
LCG Chief Communications Officer Jamie Angelle said, "The majority of the traffic comes through in the morning. In the afternoon we're seeing onesies and twosies coming in at a time."
Some cars had to leave after stopping at the first station because it was determined they did not need testing. Others continued to the next stop at the Cajundome to proceed with testing.
"Where they do the initial questioning, and asking about your symptoms, there's no physical interaction there," Angelle said. "They will determine if you need to go further. If they give you a number, you need to go to the next spot."
LCG said they have the ability to open four additional screening sites in the parish, but as of right now, they're holding off. As for those who believe they should be tested, but don't make it past the initial screening steps, Angelle said, "It is frustrating some times when you're trying to find out what's wrong with you and you don't get the answers. Those are absolute medical professionals manning those checkpoints and we have full confidence in what they're saying."
LCG is considering reducing the hours of screening and testing at the Cajundome. For Friday, the hours have been changed to 9 a.m. to noon. Based on the last two days of screenings, the majority of those wanting to be screened arrived at the site within the first two hours.
"We've decided to modify the hours to reflect the current demand," explained Mayor-President Josh Guillory.
Guillory encouraged residents to continue to utilize the 311 call center, which allows those that are exhibiting symptoms to get pre-screened over the phone by a medical professional to determine if visiting the screening site is necessary. The call center is available 24/7.
Citizens can call 211 for general information about COVID-19, 311 to get pre-screened, and 911 for emergency services.
Guillory says a high call volume has intermittently impacted the 311 service and an alternate number has been added to help with access. Callers can dial 291-8200 if they are unable to connect via 311. Enhanced call capacity and accessibility is expected to be added by mid-day Friday.
