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If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you can get tested, Gov. Jared Polis says

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, get tested, Gov. Jared Polis says
Posted at 3:15 PM, May 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-18 17:15:42-04

WHEAT RIDGE, Colo. — While Colorado officials are still working toward a goal of testing up to 10,000 people per day for COVID-19, Gov. Jared Polis on Monday made it clear: If you have symptoms, you can get tested for free.

Polis held a news conference from the STRIDE Community Health Center, one of 32 community testing centers in the state.

"If you have symptoms of COVID-19, consult your medical provider and get tested," Polis said.

If a Coloradan does not have a medical provider or can't reach their doctor, they can get tested at one of the community testing centers in the state. Go here to find a community testing center .

Officials had set the goal of being able to test anyone who is symptomatic by mid-May. Previously health officials recommended isolation for anyone experiencing coronavirus-like symptoms, unless medical care was needed.

Officials are now also encouraging any essential workers, first responders or anyone else who has regular contact with the public to get tested, even if they are asymptomatic.

Polis himself was tested during the news conference. A STRIDE employee swabbed the inside of his nose.

"It feels like a tickle," Polis said afterward.

Colorado is still ramping up the number of tests administered per day but statewide up to 10,000 tests can be processed per day, Polis said.