If you’re experiencing even one symptom of coronavirus, it’s time to get tested for COVID-19.
That’s the message from the region’s medical officer of health today.
“Now that we’re caught up (on testing backlog), I think it’s very beneficial for people to know their status,” Dr. Charles Gardner said during a media briefing on Wednesday. “The countries that have done the best at flattening the curve and avoiding a surge did a tremendous amount of testing and case and contact follow-up.
"So I would want for us to be in that camp, behaving in that way, being able to succeed in that way," he added.
Earlier messaging from both Gardner and the provincial medical officer of health recommended people stay home if they could manage their symptoms at home. Testing was restricted to those with severe symptoms or those with a travel history.
Last week, the province announced more relaxed criteria with a longer list of priority groups including vulnerable populations, health-care workers and first-responders. The province also ordered more testing at long-term care facilities, even for residents and staff without symptoms.
“I agree that it’s a change,” said Gardner. “I’m ahead of things a bit on my messaging. The province still has priority groups, and yes, the priority groups should be tested, but beyond that I think there’s value in others knowing their status.”
Gardner said last week he has recommended to all assessment centres in the region to allow more testing where they have the capacity to do so.
In Barrie, the assessment centre on Huronia Road in the city's south end is seeing between 50 and 70 people per day. That's compared to the more than 100 people who showed up March 16, the first day the centre was opened, and there were even more the next day.
Gardner has said people experiencing just one symptom of COVID-19 could be eligible for a test.
“I’d err on the side of inclusion … a single symptom of concern is worthwhile,” said Gardner. “I would suggest you can call ahead so you can get a sense of whether or not they’re able to do it.”
For more information on the symptoms of COVID-19 and to take a self-assessment online, click here.
