Asymptomatic COVID-19 Testing Available for Residents in the Stephenville and Kippens area
Western Health is encouraging residents in the Stephenville and Kippens area, especially those aged 12 to 30 years, to access COVID-19 testing whether or not they are symptomatic due to recent cases in the area. This testing is a precautionary measure to determine whether there has been transmission within the community as part of a public health investigation. Being tested is an opportunity to help protect the health of all community members.
Western Health is strongly encouraging individuals 12 years to 30 years old in particular to get tested, and if not yet vaccinated to get their first vaccination. Anyone 12 years and older is now eligible to be vaccinated. Public Health will go to each multigrade (K-12), junior high and high schools in the region one time between June 1 – 19 to provide a vaccine to students. Public health will not be providing vaccination in school to students aged 12 and older who attend elementary schools (K-6). Parents may also choose bring children to a public vaccine clinic (book an appointment here).
Booking an appointment for Asymptomatic COVID testing
To arrange testing, individuals are asked to complete the online self-assessment and referral tool available here or call 811. When asked do you require a COVID-19 test as a result of an advisory from Public Health? (e.g., a flight or a public place connected to a COVID-19 case), please select “YES.”
Testing
Following the completion of the online self-assessment or call to 811, residents will be contacted to book an appointment time. Testing will be available on Monday at the Stephenville Dome.
All individuals with symptoms are advised to isolate and get tested. Individuals who do not have symptoms do not need to isolate unless they have been advised to do so by public health.
Process for receiving results
Individuals who are tested can access their test results online through the Patient Results portal. Final results are normally available within 24 hours.
Everyone is reminded to follow public health measures including wearing masks, staying home when sick and supporting employees to do the same, practicing good hand hygiene, staying home as much as possible unless necessary for work and other essential activities, and following provincial public health requirements and recommendations.