More COVID-19 testing now available in Thunder Bay, including weekend drive-thru tests on April 25, 26

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) announced Tuesday it is working with the Superior North EMS Community Paramedicine program, and with assessment centres in the region to increase the number of people who can be tested for COVID-19.

Anyone who has a symptompossibly related to a coronavirus infectionmay be eligible to be tested, the TBDHU stated in a written released.

"With the updated testing guidelines in place, I am again encouraging people in the TBDHU region who are experiencing any symptoms to call and arrange for testing" stated Dr. Janet DeMille, the TBDHU medical officer of health.

"Individuals can be referred to assessment centers throughout the District, the Community Paramedicine program or the Drive-Through event that will be hosted at the TBDHU office this weekend."

The drive-thru testing, in partnership with the Superior North EMS paramedics, will again be conducted at the TBDHU office at 999 Balmoral Street, in Thunder Bay on Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26..

The TBDHU said that "testing as part of this targeted surveillance is for anyone who has ANY of the following symptoms:"

• fever
• cough
• difficulty breathing
• fatigue
• muscles aches
• loss of appetite
• sore throat/hoarse voice
• runny nose
• loss of taste and smell
• diarrhea

Because COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe, the TBDHU is urging individuals with any of the symptoms listed to contact the TBDHU at (807) 625-5900 or 1-888-294-6630 and they will be considered for testing.

The health unit said staff will assign the earliest available appointment and provide further guidance.

If you think you may have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has it, first self-isolate and then use Ontario's Self-Assessment Tool to see if you need to seek further care.

There is now an Online Portal to access COVID-19 test results directly from the provincial laboratory system. This portal was launched April 12 by the Ontario government and offers fast and secure access to test results on your computer and mobile device, the TBDHU stated.

For additional information about COVID-19 and the TBDHU area, please see the TBDHU website and social media channels. Additional updates will also be provided as needed. More information can also be found by visiting the Ontario government coronavirus website.