Ocean County sees 1,000 new COVID-19 cases as testing center overloaded minutes after opening

by
December 30, 2021

TOMS RIVER, NJ – If you’re hoping to get a COVID-19 test in Ocean County at the health department clinic, think again. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the center at Ocean County College closed the line just minutes after opening as hundreds of cars lined up, many being turned away after capacity was reached.

On Thursday, the county reported a record-breaking 1,000 new COVID-19 cases and announced the testing center will be closed Friday and Saturday for the New Years’ holiday, leaving Ocean County residents seeking to get tested without options until after the New Year. Many private testing facilities are also experiencing delays and backlogs.

The Ocean County testing center is booked solid with appointments through January 19th. Booster shot appointments aren’t available at the county’s two facilities until January 4th.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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