Oneida County Launches Free Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing Site

County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that Oneida County will be offering free drive-thru COVID-19 testing at Griffiss International Airport beginning on December 22.

“Testing is a crucial part of fighting COVID-19, especially during the surge we are now experiencing,” Picente said. “While there are testing options available in the community, they are not adequately meeting the needs of the public. Throughout this pandemic, Oneida County Government has remained on the forefront of keeping its residents healthy and safe, and this new, free, all-ages drive-thru testing site will present a convenient, reoccurring option that will improve availability and speed of results.”

Prior to scheduling an appointment at the county’s Griffiss testing site, an online profile must be created for any individual being tested—including children— with Quadrant Biosciences, the county’s testing partner.

Those interested can go here to create their profile and make an appointment, as well as to receive more information on the registration process.

The COVID-19 test offered by the county is a cheek swabbing method that is self-administered. The sample is then secured by a county technician and submitted to Quadrant Bioscience’s labs for results which are normally available within 24-48 hours.

Prior to arriving at the testing site, the following steps must be followed:

• Those being tested should NOT eat or drink anything (except for water) within 30 minutes of reporting, including:
  
  • Chewing gum
  • Mints or lozenges
  • Tobacco or smokeless tobacco products
• Mouthwash and toothpaste should NOT be used within one hour of testing.
• A New York State photo ID and health insurance card should be presented. Those without insurance can still be tested.

The county’s Griffiss testing event on Dec. 22 will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. at 706 Hangar Road in Rome. More county testing events will be added in the coming weeks.