Drive-up PCR tests start at Japanese soccer team's stadium

Rehearsals are conducted for the start of drive-up PCR tests at Kashima Soccer Stadium in Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture, on Sunday. (Credit: The Yomiuri Shimbun)

KASHIMA, Ibaraki -- A drive-up PCR test center opened Monday at Kashima Soccer Stadium in Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture, amid the spread of infections with the new coronavirus.

The PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests are conducted mainly on people whom public health centers determine need to be tested.

Local medical association Kashima Ishikai had been looking for candidate sites for the test center when J.League first division soccer club Kashima Antlers offered to help. The stadium is run by the prefectural government and the Antlers are the designated managers of the stadium.

Doctors confirm the procedures for collecting samples for PCR tests on Sunday. (Credit: The Yomiuri Shimbun)

"With the cooperation of many people, we could realize the start of the test center's operations in a short time," said Norio Matsukura, head of the medical association.

The PCR test site near a ticket booth is available from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and can accommodate up to 20 people each day.

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