IDPH to again offer free COVID-19 testing in Joliet this week

The Illinois Department of Public Health will again provide free, drive-through COVID-19 testing this week in Joliet for the public.

The testing takes place at the Mission Boulevard Soccer Fields, located at 640 Mission Blvd. in Joliet, Tuesday through Sunday, Dec. 6.

Each day, the IDPH mobile testing unit will be open starting 8 a.m. and closing at 4 p.m.

The IDPH uses simple nasal swabs to conduct the testing. Those tested will receive their result within four to seven days.

There is no cost to get a test. Still, those wanting to get tested should bring their insurance card. Anyone without insurance can still get tested.

Members of the public also don’t have to have any symptoms or be sick to get a test.

The IDPH will also be at Coal City High School, located at 655 W. Division St. in Coal City on Dec. 6 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The Will County Health Department is also offering free COVID-19 testing around the county each week. Testing takes place from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. most days and is open to anyone who wants to be tested.

On Mondays, the WCHD is at Trinity Services, located at 1805 Ferro Drive in New Lenox. No appointment is necessary.

On Tuesdays, the WCHD is at Lewis University, located at 1 University Drive in Romeoville. No appointment is necessary.

On Wednesdays, the WCHD is at Governor's State University, located at 1 University Parkway in University Park. Tests are given by appointment only by calling 815-727-8670.

On Thursdays, the WCHD is testing at its new building, located at 501 Ella Ave. in Joliet. Tests are given by appointment only by calling 815-727-8670.

The average rolling COVID-19 test positivity rate in Will County peaked at around 20% on Nov. 16, but has since declined slightly to around 17.5% late in November.

Still, the hospital intensive care unit bed utilization in the South Suburban Region, which includes Will and Kankakee counties, has remained around 80%.

For more information and resources related to COVID-19, visit willcountyhealth.org.