Pueblo drive-thru COVID-19 testing now open to anyone with symptoms

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- The drive-thru testing facility run by FEMA at the Colorado State Fairgrounds is now offering free tests to anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

These symptoms include shortness of breath, a fever above 100.4, coughing, chills, headaches, muscle pains, or sore throat.

The facility was first opened on Wednesday and was exclusive only to people working essential jobs or anyone above the age of 65 experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

"We wanted to make this change to include as many people from the community as possible," said Pueblo Health Director Randy Evetts. "After watching the volume yesterday we tested about half of the numbers we had hoped to reach. By expanding this it will allow us to test more folks and utilize those tests to the best of our ability."

Health officials say the volume of patients was down considerably on Thursday compared to Wednesday.

The facility at the Colorado State Fairgrounds has a limit of 250 free tests a day. A prescription is not needed to obtain a free COVID-19 test. Health officials say anyone from anywhere can receive a test, even if you are from out of state.

Gates open for testing at 9 a.m. and close at 3 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday thru the month of May.