How to qualify for testing at the Orange County Convention Center

Orange County, Fla. — Testing for COVID-19 is underway at the Orange County Convention Center, but the Sheriff's Office wants to make sure everyone knows if they qualify for a test before they show up.

They say to qualify, you must be 65 years old or older and have the following symptoms: A temperature above 99.6 degrees, as well as respiratory symptoms. In addition, all first responders and health care workers qualify for the test, regardless of age and symptoms.

Since this is drive thru testing, you will not exit your car. As you enter the center, you will be screened for symptoms and asked the relevant questions. If you fall within the testing criteria, you will then move onto individual registration in which samples will be collected, and then you will be told who to contact about your results and when you can expect them. Also, if anyone else in your car meets the criteria, they too can be tested along with you.

Although anyone meeting the qualifications to be tested can do so without the need for insurance, you are asked to bring your information with you if you do have insurance. However, a co-pay will not be required.

The testing site at the Orange County Convention Center is open daily at 9 a.m. There is also a separate testing location at the Florida Department of Health in Orange County that is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However since that is by appointment only, you are asked to call them at 407-723-5004 to set up an appointment.