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Out-of-state shipping, warehouse problems delay COVID test kits getting to Conn.

Out-of-state shipping and warehouse problems are causing a delay in at-home COVID-19 test kits arriving in Connecticut.  All Greater Danbury area towns say plans for distribution today and tomorrow are now on hold until the state learns when the product will arrive. 

Danbury Emergency Management Director Matt Cassavechia says the state did not indicate when they are expected.  Nearly 11,000 kits are being set aside for the City, and they will give up to two kits per car on a first-come, first-served basis.  He notes that when the supply comes in, a drive thru site will be set up at WestConn's westside campus.

Redding planned to distribute the town's allotment tomorrow in a drive thru format, with proof of Redding residency. Redding is receiving  about 1,170 tests. Each household is limited to two kits. Each kit contains two tests.  Tests will be distributed at a future date at the Community Center Parking Lot from noon to 3 or until supplies last. 

When the test kits are in Connecticut, Ridgefield will receive 3,150 kits for distribution.  First Selectman Rudy Marconi says the kits are intended for adults only—with a limit of one kit for each adult. A separate allocation will be made through the Ridgefield Public Schools—one test kit per student—and the Superintendent will share that information when it becomes available.  Updated information on distribution will be posted on the town of Ridgefield website.  Marconi asks that residents be thoughtful about whether they need a test kit or not.  He notes that this is for immediate use in hopes of limiting the spread.”

New Milford Mayor Pete Bass says the Governor's team earlier this week hoped to have them dispersed to the public before New Year's.  As there is no confirmed time of when municipalities will be able to receive their allocations, New Milford and others are postponing distribution of COVID 19 test kits and rescheduling once they have the test kits.  New Milford had residents sign up for a time to pick up the kits and anyone with a confirmed reservation will be contacted with a new date and time when more information is received.

Kent has been allocated 450 at-home COVID-19 test kits from the state.  The town is awaiting information on the N95 mask allocation, which will likely take place next week.  The state has directed municipalities that the focus of test kits is to fill an immediate need to help curb the spread of COVID19 due to heavy holiday travel. First Selectman Jean Speck says the goal was to distribute the kits today so that those who are planning to attend gatherings for New Year’s Eve can self-administer the two tests in their kit. 

When a date is finalized, pick up will be at the Kent Transfer Station from 4pm to 7, on a first come first serve basis.  Speck asked for patience and notes that once supply is depleted, the site will shut down. Speck says they worked around-the-clock over the past two days to stand up this distribution and are prepared to distribute the kits as soon as they receive the product.

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Brian Kilmeade

Local Headlines