HOUGHTON – The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department (WUPHD) announces that it has partnered with the Michigan National Guard (MING) to provide a free community wide COVID-19 test site. The drive-thru event will be held this Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Gates Tennis Center parking lot, located at 600 MacInnes Drive, Houghton, near the Student Development Complex on Michigan Tech’s campus.

Houghton County has experienced a significant increase in COVID-19 related cases over recent weeks. The free testing event will allow local public health and healthcare providers identify and halt the spread of the virus in our community.

Contributing to this effort is Aspirus, Gogebic Community College, Finlandia University, Michigan Technological University, Portage Health Foundation, and Upper Great Lakes Family Health Centers, and U.P. Health system, who are assisting with staff and supplies needed to carry out the event.

“This will be a great opportunity for the entire community to access testing at no charge,” said Kate Beer. “We have been very fortunate to be able to work with these partners to bring this event to our area.”

Pre-registration is not required, and participants do not need insurance, a prescription or a doctor’s order to be tested. Participants are encouraged to wear a mask and bring a driver’s license or other photo ID.