Testing priority for health care workers: Oglaza

The Hastings Prince Edward Medical Officer of Health has outlined some of the priorities surrounding testing and assessments for COVID-19.

Medical Officer of Health Doctor Piotr Oglaza gave a lengthy report on the work of public health officials in connection with the coronavirus during a teleconference Board of Health meeting on Wednesday.

Oglaza emphasized once again the need for the public to avoid close contact and to self-isolate.

He said he expects it will take another few weeks to see the impact on whether it will flatten the curve of COVID-19.

He emphasized the public should act now to slow the spread of the virus.

In a media briefing, Oglaza said the testing capability for COVID-19 has to be maintained for “high risk or priority population and health care workers.”

When questioned by Belleville Councillor Bill Sandison about the number of testing kits, Oglaza answered, “There is a world-wide shortage…there is a need to work to maximize the testing ability….pooled testing by community partners increase the supply. There are close to 300 kits in our building right now.”

He commented on the role of assessment centres.

Quinte West Councillor Terry Cassidy questioned whether the provincial government could do research to get a better turn around time on the testing.

Oglaza answered, “It’s only three months since it was found out about this virus. They are working really hard at the (provincial) ministry level. We’re still faced with the fact resources are a reality. They’re working hard as possible.”

Board Chair Jo-Anne Albert praised the work of the public health staff.

As of Wednesday morning, there were 13 lab confirmed cases, 254 people as probable cases of COPVID-19 in Hastings and Prince Edward counties, Belleville and Quinte West.