This transmission electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2—also known as 2019-nCoV, the virus that causes COVID-19—isolated from a patient in the U.S. Virus particles are shown emerging from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. The spikes on the outer edge of the virus particles give coronaviruses their name, crown-like. Image captured and colorized at NIAID’s Rocky Mountain Laboratories (RML) in Hamilton, Montana. Credit: NIAID

Two new cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Petersburg bringing the active case number to five. Of the five cases, one is a resident and four are non-residents. The cases are all related to travel.

The two latest cases were identified on Tuesday, August 17th.

In a press release, the Petersburg Medical Center says that everyone arriving to town regardless of vaccine status is urged to test upon arrival and again seven days after arrival.

Free testing is available Monday through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. at PMC. The testing happens inside the Emergency Department entrance on 2nd Street. It’s a walk-in service and no appointment is necessary.

PMC is asking anyone in the community who has associated with people who recently traveled to get free asymptomatic testing 5-7 days after potential exposure.

PMC is also urging everyone 12 and older to get vaccinated for COVID. Vaccines in Petersburg are free. People can get them at PMC, Public Health or Rexall Pharmacy.

Currently, 56 percent of Petersburg is fully vaccinated.