MUNISING, Mich. (WLUC) – Munising’s free COVID-19 testing site on Saturday is being added to the list of other areas throughout the UP where people can get tested at no cost.

“We finally have the option to get the testing here so we just want to make sure we can get as many tested as we can today in our community,” said LMAS COVID-19 Testing Incident Commander, Bobbi Ayotte.

The one-day event began Saturday morning, where health officials say they saw a steady flow of people coming in to get checked.

“It’s great. Everything is running smoothly. We have a great turnout,” said Munising Memorial Chief Nursing Officer, Christi Salo.

While the Luce, Mackinac, Alger, Schoolcraft District Health Department waits to receive the exact number of people who came to Saturday’s site, health officials are commending those who are prioritizing the health of themselves and protecting others.

“It really gives some ease too on our community and some businesses,” explained Ayotte. “The more we can get tested, we are able to really decrease the spread and that’s what we’re here for today.”

Local nurses also add the testing sites are beneficial for hospitals in the area.

“I think this helps us prepare for how much COVID-19 is really in our community so that we can prepare if there’s more than what we can just assume,” said Salo.

Free COVID-19 testing will continue next Friday in St. Ignace from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., and then on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Newberry. Those wanting to receive a test do not have to show any symptoms of the virus or come prepared with a doctor’s note.

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