NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Tennessee schools will soon receive thousands of rapid test kits to test for COVID-19.
The federal government is sending Tennessee 133,000 tests made by Abbott Laboratories. Governor Bill Lee says the state will get its first shipment next week. He's hopeful the rapid tests will help schools open and keep them up and running.
Lee made the announcement Tuesday during his weekly COVID-19 update.
State health commissioner Dr. Lisa Piercey said the tests can turn around results in 13 to 15 minutes rather than several days.
“That's not only getting schools that are currently closed or all virtual reopened back in person, but also keeping those schools that are open… keeping the students in the classroom whenever possible,” Piercey said Tuesday.
She says they are easy to use and can be administered and evaluated at the same site – it involves swabbing the front of the nostril, not deep inside. The swab is than placed on a card, where a chemical reaction determines a positive or negative result.
The state will work for the rest of the week on a distribution plan.
Some rapid tests will also be sent to nursing homes. The governor expects the same shipment of 133,000 will continue on a weekly basis on a per capita distribution through the end of the year, for a total of 2 million tests for Tennessee.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
