WINNIPEG – The Government of Manitoba is offering COVID-19 testing at a new lab just for front-line health workers and emergency personnel. Health Minister Cameron Friesen says the drive-up test site will be ready by Friday, and will have the capacity to perform between 40 and 60 tests per day. The facility will be open to firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and emergency communications personnel by appointment only, and will be staffed by licensed Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service medics at the WFPS training academy at 2546 McPhillips St.
The WRHA is also planning to reserve a limited number of appointment slots for front-line COVID-19 tests at two other sites: 2375 Pembina Hwy. and 604 St. Mary’s Road. First responders and healthcare workers who need a COVID-19 test can arrange an appointment by calling 1-855-268-4318. Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman expressed thanks to the province and the WFPS for their support in taking on the two initiatives.
My comments to media on today’s announcement that the @CityofWinnipeg will be partnering with the Province in providing a COVID-19 testing site for first responders. Thank you @BrianPallister and @CameronFriesen for supporting today’s announcement. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/V5iklkBgMi
— Mayor Brian Bowman (@Mayor_Bowman) November 18, 2020
Health Minister Friesen is also announcing a partnership with Doctors Manitoba to enable after-hours COVID-19 testing at several medical clinics, including the Dakota Medical Centre and the Minor Illness and Injury Clinic at Red River College’s Notre Dame campus.
“Health-care workers have been on the front line of the fight against COVID-19, frequently placing themselves at greater risk of exposure to the virus in order to provide treatment and care for patients,” Friesen says. “Expanding access to timely testing recognizes their immeasurable importance to our health system fight against COVID-19.”
The Province offers an online assessment tool and is reminding Manitobans that only those who have COVID-19 symptoms should get tested.