The state’s new free COVID-19 testing sites at the Dinuba and Porterville memorial buildings have started taking appointments.

“The safety of our residents is always our top priority,” said Dr. Karen Haught, Tulare County’s health officer. “Every precaution is being taken to protect people who are going to be screened for COVID-19.”

The Dinuba Memorial Building is at 249 S. Alta Ave., in Dinuba. The Porterville Memorial Building is at 1900 W. Olive Ave., in Porterville.

Sign up for Tests Online or by Calling

Residents can register online for testing at either location at this link. Those without internet access can call 1 (888) 634-1123 to schedule a test.

The Tulare County sites are among 80 opening throughout the state as health officials try to contain the coronavirus.

More testing and better contact tracing have been cited by Gov. Gavin Newsom as necessary to the state’s plan to begin easing its nearly two-month lockdown.

Tulare County’s confirmed cases rose by 101 on Tuesday. As of noon Wednesday, it had reported 41 deaths and 916 total cases.