The Hawkesbury and District General Hospital (HGH) is inviting all citizens concerned about COVID-19 to be tested at the Hawkesbury Assessment Centre. The province recently published new guidelines regarding testing criteria and is calling for an increase in the number of tested people to help prevent the spread of the virus and to protect vulnerable people and communities.
“Do you have symptoms or do you fear having been in contact with an infected person? Just come for a test at the COVID-19 Assessment Centre in Hawkesbury. Prevention is our best line of defence against the spread of the virus. No appointments and no referrals are needed. All you have to do is show up between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday,” says Dr. Suzanne Filion, Vice-President of Development and Integration at HGH.
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. Other signs of infection may include new or worsening respiratory symptoms such as a sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, hoarse voice, or difficulty swallowing.
“Sometimes, an infected person may show less common symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, confusion, falls, worsening of a chronic condition, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, chills or headaches. So if you or a loved one have any of the symptoms, please come for a test. It is quick and easy, and it can protect you and your family,” adds Dr. Julie Maranda, HGH Chief of Staff.
The province recommends that anyone with symptoms or that has been in close contact with a confirmed case be tested. People considered at a higher risk should also be tested, including healthcare workers, long-term care and retirement homes residents, first responders (firefighters, police officers and paramedics) and other caregivers. The recommendation extends to essential services workers in grocery stores, food services, maintenance, transportation and utilities.
The COVID-19 Assessment Centre is located at 750 Laurier Street in Hawkesbury. The centre is managed by HGH in partnership with the Eastern Ontario Health Unit. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday.
