Here’s how restaurant workers can get free coronavirus testing in Kansas City

Restaurant workers in the Kansas City area will have the chance to get free coronavirus testing during a limited three-day event next week, the Kansas City, Missouri Department of Health announced Wednesday.

Staff from the health department and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services will administer up to 2,000 coronavirus tests at the Homefield Sports Facility at 5300 Bannister Rd. from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 13 through July 15.

Anyone being tested must make an appointment in advance. Restaurant workers who live in Missouri can register for a time online or call 877-435-8411. If there are vacant appointments, others outside the restaurant industry will be allowed to sign up at some point as well.

The department wanted to give the opportunity for restaurant workers who aren’t insured through their employer to get tested for COVID-19, said Naser Jouhari, Environmental Health Services Division manager.

“In addition, we wanted to protect them and protect patrons walking into these establishments,” Jouhari said, “making sure that employees are distant, and they won’t be carrying COVID-19 while they are serving [food.]”

The number of new coronavirus cases has continued to climb. The Kansas City metro saw its second highest increase in COVID-19 cases Wednesday since the pandemic began, with 335 new coronavirus cases confirmed. The metro has now surpassed 10,000 confirmed coronavirus cases.