Minnesota adding three COVID-19 testing sites in response to demand, omicron concerns [View all]

Minnesota is opening three more free COVID-19 testing centers next week in response to public concern over the new, fast-spreading omicron variant and hourlong lines at existing state sites.

Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday said adding new sites in Anoka, Cottage Grove and North Branch is necessary to increase state surveillance of viral spread and alert people to their infection status so they can take steps to protect others.

"Testing is a key tool for Minnesotans looking to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19 — especially the new, contagious omicron variant," Walz said.

Some of Minnesota's 20 existing COVID-19 testing sites have reported overwhelming demand, especially after the holidays as people want to check their infection status following family and group gatherings.

Lines at the Minneapolis Convention Center snaked down the hallway Tuesday afternoon, stretching to a second entrance at the downtown site. Those who had booked appointments in advance online were in and out of the testing site within 10 minutes while walk-ins faced long waits. One woman getting her first COVID-19 test complained about waiting for almost an hour, unaware that she could jump to the front of the line because she had snagged an appointment online.

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https://www.startribune.com/december-was-minnesotas-deadliest-month-in-2021-for-covid-19/600132568/




People waited in long lines Tuesday to get tested for COVID-19 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.