North Bay hospital reducing COVID-19 PCR testing next week
The North Bay Regional Health Centre is going to be reducing COVID-19 PCR testing starting Monday, Nov. 14.
In a social media post Friday, the hospital said it will no longer be offering COVID-19 swabbing.
“This realignment and reduction of COVID-19 PCR testing is reflective of our new reality, vaccination rates and the effectiveness of home Rapid Antigen Testing,” the hospital wrote.
However, testing will continue for surgery patients requiring a PCR before an operation at Health Sciences North, anyone who calls and identifies as immune compromised either due to a medical condition and/or immune suppressant medications and First Nations residents or individuals working/travelling to a reserve.
“If you have been exposed to COVID-19, have symptoms, or for screening purposes, take the COVID-19 self-assessment for recommendations and next steps,” the hospital said.
The hospital is urging the public not to come to its emergency department for a COVID-19 test as its main focus is on providing emergency care to the community.
If you have concerns about your symptoms, contact your doctor, health care provider or Telehealth for more information and guidance.
If you develop severe symptoms requiring medical attention, such as shortness of breath or chest pain, call 911.
Doctor assessments and antiviral treatment will still be available for high-risk individuals. Tests for travel can be booked here.
“High-risk individuals with COVID-19 compatible symptoms for less than seven days and a positive Rapid Antigen Test for COVID-19 should call the COVID Centre to determine eligibility for antiviral treatment,” the hospital stated.
Walk-ins are not accepted at this time and patients with severe symptoms should still go to the emergency department or call 911.
The COVID Centre can be reached at 705-475-8600, ext. 4110.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.