Dear Friend --

We’ve just launched one of the first dual COVID-19 and flu testing operations in the state of California. Everyone who gets tested for COVID-19 at a city-run site will get automatically tested for influenza. This is critical for those worried about their symptoms. It’s a new national model and should be done everywhere.

As you have likely seen in the news, we have the potential of facing two major health crises, where folks could contract both COVID-19 and the flu. Here in Long Beach we are offering free combination flu and COVID-19 tests at city-run testing locations to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep our community safe during this season.

This dual testing model puts our city at the forefront of public health policy and serves as a model for other agencies in our shared fight to slow the spread of this deadly disease. Appointments may be made online or by calling the city’s COVID-19 Info Line at 562.570.INFO (4636). Free testing is offered to all residents of Long Beach, Signal Hill, Lakewood, Paramount and Compton.

Additionally, I want to urge those who have not yet received a flu vaccine to get vaccinated soon. We are also offering free flu vaccinations at select COVID-19 testing sites. We are committed to beating back this virus, but we all have to work together to keep each other healthy.

Thank you and stay safe,

Mayor Robert Garcia