KILLEEN, Texas (Aug. 23, 2021) – There were 1,059 COVID-19 tests and 234 vaccines administered during the first weekend at the drive-thru COVID-19 site in Killeen. 178 tests were positive.
Killeen Emergency Services partnered with the Texas Division of Emergency Services and the Texas Military Department to open a dual testing and vaccine drive-thru last week and will again this week. It’s being held at the Killeen Special Events Center (3301 S. WS Young Drive) this Thursday – Saturday from 9a.m. – 7p.m. through Aug. 28.
No appointments are needed, although a phone number and/or an email is required. Participants can choose to take the COVID-19 test or a receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
On Aug. 13, Bell County re-issued its disaster declaration, after terminating the original one that ended on June 1. On Aug. 19, the City of Killeen reinstated the Local State of Disaster Declaration that was originally issued in March 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and ended once the Bell County declaration ended.
On Aug. 5, the Bell County Public Health District raised its COVID-19 threat level to the highest tier-- Level 1-- which is severe, uncontrolled community transmission.
City leaders want to highlight that the coronavirus is still present and those who are vaccinated are encouraged to still follow guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including wearing a mask, washing hands and social distancing. Leaders are also spreading awareness about the heightened effects of the Delta variant on youth, leading to more hospitalizations.
As a reminder, residents are asked to text their zip code to GETVAX (438829) for a list of nearby locations to receive a COVID-19 vaccine shot. Each person is also sent information about free childcare and getting a ride to a vaccination location. Residents may also call the connected hotline at 1-800-232-0233 for the same information.