Oahu educators will now have a chance to get a free COVID-19 test at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Hawaiian Monarch Hotel in Waikiki thanks to an expanded service offered by National Kidney Foundation Hawaii Consortium.

The PCR mid-turbinate test processes and delivers results within six hours, according to a news release on Wednesday announcing the expanded service from the City and County of Honolulu.

A medical technician demonstrates how to administer a COVID-19 test during a free testing clinic at the Waikiki Shell, in Honolulu, HI, Wednesday, November 11, 2020. (Ronen Zilberman photo Civil Beat)
Results from the PCR mid-turbinate test can be available between three to six hours. Ronen Zilberman/Civil Beat/2020

Noting that many teachers are returning to the classroom after months of full virtual instruction, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said “the need to keep our teachers safe is more important than ever.”

“Until enough of our community members are vaccinated, expanding COVID-19 testing opportunities to our educators is paramount for a safer and healthier Oahu,” he said.

The COVID-19 test — regularly $125 — already has been offered free of charge to City and County of Honolulu employees and their family members; Honolulu first responders and their family members; and state and federal employees working at the airport.

This is the first free COVID-19 test offered to Hawaii teachers, who must present a valid ID at one of the two testing sites and can pre-register at this link.

The testing hours and locations are as follows:

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport: Diamond Head Tour Group Area just past Baggage Claim 31. No appointment required: 9 am to 11:30 pm, Monday – Sunday

Hawaiian Monarch Hotel in Waikiki (444 Niu St. Honolulu, HI 96815). No appointment required: 9 am to 4:30 pm, Monday – Sunday

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