Coronavirus: Line wraps around Regency COVID-19 testing site ahead of Christmas

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —

Tuesday was a busy day at the Regency Mall COVID-19 testing site. Action News Jax Courtney Cole monitored the long line at throughout the day.

People of all ages stood in line, and found ways to keep themselves busy, as they waited to get tested for coronavirus.

Part of the reason some people were standing in the line today was because they’re doing some traveling for the holidays.

“I am planning to go see my family, so I wanted to make sure I’m good. I was possibly exposed at work,” said Kelly McCandless.

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McCandless is headed to Colorado for Christmas. It’s the first time she’ll get to see her family, since the summer.

When I asked her what she’s looking forward to most, she told me, “Just being able to give people a hug once I’m tested and negative.”

Darrin Finley told Action News Jax Courtney Cole he’s getting tested before visiting family in Atlanta.

“It’s a service that’s available, and I felt no reason not to take advantage of it to make sure my loved ones are going to be safe,” said Finley.

Finley and McCandless may both be traveling to different places, but are both looking for a little normalcy to wrap up the unique year of 2020.

At the Regency Mall testing site, the number of people getting tested has increased since Saturday.

According to the latest data from the Florida Association of Public Information Officers:

• Saturday: 2,683 people got tested for COVID-19
• Sunday: 2,616 people got tested for COVID-19
• Monday: 3,075 people got tested for COVID-19 – which the Florida Association of Public Information Officers called a record day of testing

While the lines were long, McCandless had this message to share with people who aren’t sure if they need to get tested.

“Don’t do it for yourself, do it for the people that you love. You never know who’s at risk, who is compromised, what’s going to happen if people get sick.”

Our Action News Jax Medical Expert, Dr. Michelle Aquino, said if you were planning to travel for Christmas— you should have already been in quarantine for at least the last 7-to-8 days.

“If you have not quarantined for that amount of time, then all bets are off— and there’s nothing 100%,” said Dr. Aquino.

WATCH: Dr. Aquino explains the COVID-19 vaccine

And once you have arrived at your family or friends’ home, “Always wear your mask. And it sounds silly, but if you’re going into a family unit that you have not seen— and you have not connected for many, many months— they have other exposures, you have other exposures, everyone needs to wear a mask,” said Dr. Aquino..

She also said you need to: use hand sanitizer, practice social distancing and do big family meals –outside.

All things Finley told Action News Jax is ready to do.

“It’s a small inconvenience to make sure everything’s OK, so put forth the effort.”

Dr. Aquino told Cole the safest way to travel this holiday season is by car.

She even suggests packing your food, so you don’t risk exposing yourself to virus –during your road trip to visit your loved ones.

The Regency Square Mall COVID-19 testing site is available for walk-ups and appointments.

At last check, there are no more appointments available until December 26, but you can still walk up to get tested or visit other sites in Jacksonville.

Coronavirus: Local Impacts: Where to get a free COVID-19 test in Jacksonville

The Regency testing site will be closed on Thursday 12/24 & Friday 12/25.

You can begin making appointments again on December 26th.

Coronavirus: Rush in testing before the holiday

Cox Media Group