COVID testing increases in Durham

Lakeridge Health is advising anyone who has any COVID-19 symptoms to get tested.

As Lakeridge Health continues to gain further control of the virus, they are recommending everyone who has any symptoms should get tested. The test is also available for anyone without symptoms who wants to get tested.

As of June 16, Oshawa has had 262 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 225 of which have resolved.

Across Durham, there are 1,641 confirmed cases, 1,346 of which have resolved.

Since May 25, the number of daily swabs done at the Assessment Centres has dramatically increased and hours have been extended at the centres in order to meet the demand.

According to Lakeridge Health, people are currently being tested between three and 24 hours after submitting the form, with the time varying depending on volumes.

Appointments are being booked at COVID Assessment Centres in Oshawa and Ajax.

Lakeridge Health and the Durham Region Health Department, along with clinics and local businesses, are actively looking at options to expand testing, including opening sites in other parts of the region.

To receive a test, visit www.covidswab.lh.ca to complete the online form and instructions for the appointment will be automatically emailed out. Those without a computer or WiFi can contact the region’s health department for assistance at 1-800-841-2729.