Search form

You are here

QCC Helps Community with Flu Shot Clinic and Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing

September 2020
  • QCC hosted a flu shot clinic for the public.
    QCC hosted a flu shot clinic for the public.

Quinsigamond Community College has been working to support the Worcester community by hosting a drive-thru COVID-19 test site at its main campus, 670 West Boylston Street. The event began mid-September and will run through October. Testing is being conducted by AIDS Project Worcester, Inc., and is part of the Commonwealth’s “Stop the Spread” program.  The testing is open to the general public regardless of whether or not a person is symptomatic. No insurance is required, and testing is free.

“We are proud to help reinforce the City’s campaign to stop the spread of COVID-19. The best way to help stop the spread is by wearing face coverings, social distancing, hand washing, and getting tested to make sure you do not have the virus,” said QCC President Dr. Luis G. Pedraja.

The drive-thru testing site will be open by appointment only. There will be no weekend hours, and only those with appointments will be tested. Tests will be given in Lot 3 of the College’s main campus.

“AIDS Project Worcester is an excellent partner for this endeavor. They are fully self-contained, and bring all testing equipment to every host site. It’s a remarkable operation,” said Community Public Health Specialist/Consultant, Susan Johnson. “The test is a PCR nasal test, the most reliable test available because of its high sensitivity. Tests are processed through the Broad Institute and results are sent by email within 24-48 hrs.”

“We are delighted to be working with such a compassionate and professional organization like Quinsigamond Community College. We look forward to this collaboration that will provide an important public health service to the Worcester community,” said Michelle Smith, executive director for AIDS Project Worcester.

Additionally, the College hosted a drop-in flu clinic for the public on Monday, September 28 and Thursday, October 1 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the College’s main campus, 670 West Boylston Street, Worcester, Lot 3. Those attending the flu clinic were asked to bring their insurances cards, and the flu shots were free with most insurances. This year the influenza immunization will be required for all students attending Massachusetts colleges and universities.

“The new vaccine requirement is an important step in reducing flu-related illnesses. Flu symptoms can be comparable with those of COVID-19, so getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever during 2020-2021, to protect yourself and the people around you from the flu,” Ms. Johnson said, adding that people who were feeling sick were asked to not attend the clinic. 

To make an appointment for a COVID-19 test, call 508.847.0623.  For information on how QCC is responding to this pandemic, visit the College’s COVID-19 Information Center at www.QCC.edu/covid19

Share