Priority Coronavirus Testing Available For GA First Responders

GEORGIA — The state of Georgia will begin COVID-19 priority testing for first responders at all specimen points of collection sites across the state, Gov. Brian Kemp announced Tuesday.

Kemp joined the Georgia Department of Public Health and Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to make the announcement.

"As we continue safely reopening our state, it is crucial that we support those who are on the front lines, keeping Georgians healthy and our communities safe," Kemp said. "We are grateful for our first responders' willingness to answer the call of duty in these challenging times, and we are committed to ensuring they have every resource necessary to stay healthy as they continue their important work."

First responders can go to any specimen points of collection site, show their official ID and be tested. There is no need to set up an appointment. A list of specimen points of collection site locations can be found online.

“First responders are vital to health and safety of our communities, and we want to support them by ensuring they are able to be tested quickly and efficiently,” said Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency Homer Bryson. “We also want citizens to be secure, knowing that when a firefighter, paramedic, or police officer goes to a call, those responders have been tested for COVID-19.”

As part of the Office of the Governor, Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency works with local, state, and federal governments, in partnership with the private sector and faith-based community, to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. In addition, Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency employees are on 24-hour call statewide to assist local authorities when disaster strikes. Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency’s Ready Georgia campaign helps Georgians prepare for disasters.

Go to gema.ga.gov for information on developing a custom emergency plan and Ready kit.