Mobile unit will allow for COVID-19 testing in hot spots
The Hamilton County Health Department has purchased a health incident trailer to help in responding to the increase in COVID-19 cases. With specialized features like solar charging, UV disinfectant lights, and ADA accessibility, the trailer has the ability to help with testing, vaccinations, PPE distribution, and incident command.
Walker
“This trailer gives us the ability to be anywhere in the county we are needed,” said Christian Walker, emergency preparedness coordinator for the Hamilton County Health Department. “As a self-contained unit, we can provide COVID-19 testing in Mid-Town Carmel and vaccinations in downtown Sheridan within just a few hours’ notice.”
The trailer was designed by JHB Group, Inc., a firefighter owned and operated small business in the Chicago suburbs. JHB is in the process of making at least 30 more trailers for health departments around the country. The trailer cost $85,000 – an expense that was covered in large part by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
“We purchased the trailer to respond to the pandemic, but it will be a great resource for our community many years from now,” Walker said. “We have already talked with the Noblesville Fire Department about using it as a first aid station for the 4-H Fair and the Westfield Fire Department has expressed interest in using it during Colts Training Camp at Grand Park.”
The Hamilton County Health Department will use the trailer as a fourth COVID-19 testing facility starting Monday, Nov. 30. It will be located in the Health Department’s north parking lot at 18030A Foundation Drive, Noblesville. Hours will be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Anyone who needs a test can make an appointment at this link.