July 20, 2020

COVID-19 DRIVE-THRU TESTING DATES IN MUSKOKA

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

MUSKOKA — Better late than never.

As the pandemic persists, public COVID-19 testing is expanding into the summer.

After a “record” testing day at the Gravenhurst Centennial Centre June 30— when Muskoka Paramedic Services staff swabbed 203 people in their cars and trucks — they’re coming back.

Thanks to the demand and its success, MPS spokesperson Jeff McWilliam MuskokaTODAY.com.

The paramedics organized the test centre in small tents the arena parking lot.

“It went very well. We had great on site community support from the Gravenhurst Rotary Club and local town council.

“We were able to test 203 people.

“We are very proud of the work Muskoka Paramedics do every day however extremely proud of the entire drive-through testing team to make this happen in a short period of time to help our residents and visitors.”

Weeks after essential services personnel were the first to be tested at two community Assessment Centres in Huntsville and Bracebridge, drive-through testing is finally getting in hear gear and rolling out across the district for the rest of the residents of Muskoka equally exposed to the corona virus.

You do not need an appointment to be tested at one of these drive-through locations. However, wait times will vary depending on volumes.

Individuals must wear a mask and bring a valid health card.

If you are travelling in from outside of the Muskoka region, you can still get tested at your local COVID-19 Assessment Centre before you make your trip. Please consider that your first option for testing.

When you arrive at one of these drive-through testing locations, follow instructions provided on all signs and those of community paramedics.

Remain in your vehicle at all times and proceed to the testing tent only when advised to do so.

Testing is still available by appointment for symptomatic people and asymptomatic people not planning to visit a long-term care home, retirement home, or other congregate living setting by calling your primary care provider or the Muskoka Assessment Centre line at 1-888-383-7009.

Ontario has released the COVID-19 Test Results Viewer that allows you to check your results online. The Assessment Centres/Community Paramedics do not have test results nor do they control the length of time it takes to process COVID tests. You will receive detailed information about how to get your test results when you arrive at the drive-through or the Assessment Centres.

(Bracebridge and Lake of Bays began these testing dates this past week.)