For Immediate Release
July 27, 2022
County to Host Free Giveaway on August 2nd at H. Lee Dennison Building
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone today announced that the County will host a back to school test kit distribution event on August 2nd between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM in the lobby of the H. Lee Dennison Building, located at 100 Veterans Memorial Highway. Approximately 3,500 test kits will be available for residents to pick up.
All Suffolk County residents are encouraged to attend to obtain kits for their household. Test kits will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis.
“While many of us have resumed daily life, living with COVID-19, it is imperative that as we prepare for kids to go back to school, parents have the tools that we know help prevent exposure and spread,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “Availability to test kits helps our communities maintain preparedness, as we work to keep this virus under control.”
Dr. Gregson Pigott, Suffolk County Health Commissioner said: “SARS-CoV-2 is still with us and although COVID is mild in most children, there are still many children who get very sick. Since the pandemic began, there have been 13 million cases, 130,000 hospitalizations and 1,500 deaths in children under 17 and younger in the U.S. Testing can help determine if students are infected with SARS-CoV-2 regardless of whether they have symptoms and whether they are at risk of spreading the infection to others.”
Together, with local municipalities, County legislators, the Suffolk County Police Department, community groups, not-for-profits and more, the County has distributed nearly 300,000 test kits to residents, including seniors, first responders and other vulnerable populations.
In an effort to vaccinate younger populations and those that may still be hesitant to get the vaccine, Suffolk County Department of Health Services’ Pharmacy-to-Practice program continues to provide pediatricians, small pharmacies, and other medical providers with COVID-19 vaccines in amounts that are appropriate for their practice. Providers may visit www.suffolkcountyny.gov/pharmacy for more information, including ordering vaccine through an online portal. To date, the pharmacy has provided approximately 21,000 doses of vaccine to 41 healthcare providers across the County.
The County also continues to roll out vaccination efforts hosting clinics across the County throughout the month of August. Residents who are eligible to receive a vaccine, including boosters, are encouraged to roll up their sleeve, as inoculation is still the best tool to protect themselves and loved ones. County clinic dates and times are available at www.suffolkcountyny.gov/vaccine.
###