NEWSROOM

Equality Health and ASU Collaborate to Eliminate COVID-19 Related Disparities in Arizona

Registration is open now for free nasal swab testing event Saturday, Feb.27 in South Phoenix;
Results ready in 48 hours

CALENDAR/MEDIA ADVISORY

(PHOENIX) February 22, 2021 — The Equality Health Foundation n partnership with Arizona State University (ASU) announces a collaborative effort with local stakeholders in communities of color to increase access to COVID-19 testing and culturally competent health care outreach and education for vulnerable communities hit hard by the pandemic. Until the COVID-19 vaccine is made fully available to all, testing is one tool to aid in controlling the spread of the disease, in conjunction with continued prevention practices such as physical distancing, cleaning surfaces and washing hands frequently and properly wearing an adequate face mask. Alarmingly, accessible testing among minority populations has been challenging, and now, on a downward trend in participation since the roll out of the vaccine began and pandemic fatigue.

People are encouraged to continue their diligence in practicing prevention measures and getting tested as they have been exposed to someone with the COVID-19 virus or are experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath or loss of smell and/or taste. Testing is also useful for being cleared for employment, going back to school in person or returning home from college and before traveling.

The upcoming testing event is open to the community at large including children ages two and older accompanied by a guardian or parent. ID or proof of insurance are not required. Organizers are prepared to test more than 1,000 people. Registration is now open online at www.equalityhealthfoundation.org/equality or by calling 1-888-410-2661.