North GA - Public health officials in North Georgia encourage residents to spread holiday cheer instead of the COVID-19 virus this holiday season. Along with vaccination, the best way to prevent sharing the virus with others is to test for COVID-19 if symptomatic before going to holiday gatherings with family or larger crowds.

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is offering FREE COVID-19 PCR testing at TestAndGo Kiosks placed in communities across Georgia that are open 24-7. The kiosk in the North Georgia Health District is located at the Piedmont Community Center, 824 Industrial Boulevard, Ellijay, GA 30540.

After completing a brief registration form, the kiosks dispense a test kit that includes a nasal swab, similar to other at-home tests, and instructions on collecting the specimen. Once the specimen is collected, it is safely packaged back into the kit and placed in the kiosk. The specimens are picked up daily and sent to an accredited lab for PCR testing.

Pre-registration for testing at the DPH TestAndGo Kiosks is not required, but it is available at register.testandgo.com. A map of locations and a short video about using the kiosks is at dph.georgia.gov/covidtesting.

There is no out-of-pocket cost for the tests provided through a DPH kiosk, but for anyone with insurance, their insurance will be billed for the test. In many cases, notification of test results are sent to the person tested by email or text within 48 hours of specimen collection. 

Free Drive-thru PCR COVID-19 testing is also offered at Pleasant Grove Park, 1732 Pleasant Grove Drive, N.E., Dalton, GA 30721. Testing is available Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 3 PM.

COVID-19 testing is one of many prevention measures, along with vaccination and booster doses, masking, and physical distancing, that protect you and others by reducing the chances of spreading COVID-19. For more information about COVID-19 vaccinations or boosters, visit www.dph.ga.gov/covid-vaccine.

The goal is for everyone to enjoy this special time with loved ones while prioritizing their health and safety.