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WATCH: Premier says anyone who wants to be tested for COVID-19, should be

"We can’t let off now, the stakes are too high"
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Premier Doug Ford addresses the province at Queen's Park May 24, to encourage testing for COVID-19 and compliance to safety measures issued in its regard. (Screen capture)

The only way to bring up testing rates for COVID-19 is for everyone that feels they need a test, to get a test, said Premier Doug Ford in his latest address at Queen's Park Sunday.

Ontario has made great strides since the pandemic began, he said, including increasing hospital capacity, establishing 129 assessment centres provincewide and will next week, be releasing a detailed testing strategy. 

Until a vaccine can be found, however, Ford said the best defence against this deadly virus is its detection and isolation, achieved through testing. 

Results of this testing will not only assist in tracking and slowing the spread of COVID-19 but are directly related to the province's ability to reopen the economy, he said. 

With this in mind, the Premier said he was shocked to see the crowds of people congregating at Trinity Bellwoods Park in Toronto on Saturday, flouting social distancing regulations. Ontario reopened its park for the public to enjoy the warmer weather, he said but that was too many people.

"There is still a deadly virus amongst us and if we allow it, it will spread. It will spread like wildfire, so we have to stay on guard."

Moving forward, Ford said the province will be targeting various sectors and hot spots but for the most accurate results, he needs the public's assistance. 

"I am here to ask for your help today. I am asking the people of Ontario, if you are worried that you have COVID-19 or that you have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, even if you're not showing symptoms, to please, go get a test."

Those who test negative are still susceptible to later infection, he said, so it's important to continue monitoring one's health, watch for symptoms and request additional testing if needed. 

Testing centres can be found by contacting your family doctor, local public health unit or Telehealth Ontario. 

"Testing is one of the best defences against the spread of this virus. We need to continue to work together. We need to continue to take action that protects our loved ones to stop the spread of this deadly virus."

"We can’t let off now, the stakes are too high."

Find more information on local testing centres on the Public Health Sudbury and Districts website

Watch the full live-streamed announcement in the video below. 


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Keira Ferguson, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

About the Author: Keira Ferguson, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

A graduate of both Laurentian University and Cambrian College, Keira Ferguson is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter, funded by the Government of Canada, at Sudbury.com.
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