Beijing launches drive-through COVID-19 testing

2020-05-06

A drive-through testing service for novel coronavirus was launched at a physical examination center in Beijing's Chaoyang district on Friday, Beijing Television reported.

Individuals can set aside a time for testing and get screened at the center without leaving their cars.

After checking temperature and confirming health QR code and reservation information, staff at the service station will collect throat swab samplings at their cars.

The test serves people who need to get their COVID-19 status for purposes like business travel, work and schooling. It costs 260 yuan ($37) per person per test, and the sampling process lasts about one minute.

"Samples would be sent to 46 testing institutions. The results can be available online within 24 hours, while being delivered home," said Li Xiuchi, head of the checkpoint.

In addition to the Chaoyang district checkpoint, another two drive-in test points will be added in Chaoyang district and Fengtai district, the BTV report added.

Drive-through testing for novel coronavirus was first practiced in South Korea and quickly adopted in other parts of the world. The idea is simple: By keeping potential patients in their cars and allowing plenty of ventilation throughout the testing facility, chances of spreading the virus are minimal.