First Rapid COVID-19 Tests For Essential New Haven Staff: Mayor

New Haven CT

03 January, 2022

8:58 AM

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NEW HAVEN, CT — Essential New Haven city staff, including teachers, firefighters, police officers, and public works employees, are the first to get at-home rapid tests, according to New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker. Begun Sunday, the limited number of tests were made available for those workers only if "they are symptomatic or have a known COVID exposure," a statement from Elicker's office reads. The city got 10,000 tests and "anticipates it will acquire on its own additional tests by the end of the week." New Haven also recently received the first tranche of rapid antigen tests from the state . The shipment of about 9,000 tests — there are two tests in one kit. That distribution is expcted to begin Monday. "This initial distribution will be used to get tests into the hands of community groups servicing vulnerable residents – such as the elderly and those experiencing homelessness," the statement reads. And, most of those tests will go to New Haven Public Schools for families with school children who are symptomatic or have a known COVID exposure. The city expects to receive additional tests from the state this week – additional distribution plans will be announced when those are received. At-home test kits are not yet being distributed to the public, but Monday, there's free, no appointment testing until noon at 60 Sargent Drive, Long Wharf, and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the New Haven Green. About N-95 masks This city has also been distributing N95 masks that it has received from the state "and will continue to do so," Elicker said. Sunday Elicker was at a distribution site for school staff who are symptomatic or have a known COVID exposure. "Our team has an efficient operation going, and it was great to see so many essential city staff coming out to get tests," he said. "Particularly it was great to see so many teachers getting tests in order to ensure they're ready to return safely to work tomorrow morning. We thank everyone for working through this difficult time."