Rockford, Illinois (WIFR) – The State of Illinois recognizes the Rockford COVID-19 test site as offering the highest number of tests of any SHIELD site in the state.
The SHIELD test site at the University of Illinois School of Medicine in Rockford has supported over 440,000 tests at a single site on Parkview Avenue.
“The whole SHIELD project has been great for the state,” says Area Dean Dr. Alex Stagnaro-Green. “This reflects the medical school’s dedication to Rockford, Winnebago County and the state of Illinois.”
More than 12 volunteers have helped test more than 68,000 people since the site opened in May 2021.
“It’s really great to see that our communities stand up for their expertise when they really need it, and do so in a way that they actually lead the nation,” said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. says.
Mayor McNamara praises the efforts of the site’s volunteers and the lives they have impacted.
“Then think of all the employers who have been able to stay open or stay open safely for all of us…they have clearly and absolutely saved lives. I think they are the unsung heroes.”
The medical school’s Dr. Stagnaro-Green says the COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on people’s lives. He appreciates the tests provided and the speed of the results.
“Hopefully that will hold up over time, but if there is a spike at some point, we will be ready and ready to serve the community again.”
The test site closed at the end of September and moved to Providence Baptist Church on Clifton Avenue in Rockford.
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