Nova Scotia Health’s Eastern Zone reminding people of COVID-19 testing options

Following recent provincial changes to the COVID-19 response/protocol, Nova Scotia Health’s Eastern Zone is reminding people how they can test for COVID-19 on Cape Breton Island and in Antigonish and Guysborough counties.

Rapid tests are available in more than 200 community locations, including participating public libraries, MLA offices, or Access NS or Feed NS locations if you’re using in-person services. Or from a Public Health mobile unit that visits your community. A list of locations can be found at www.nshealth.ca/coronavirus/covid-19-rapid-testing.

For PCR testing (if eligible), the Antigonish Market Square location has moved to:

St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, Lab Blood Collections
25 Bay St., Antigonish
Hours of operation: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and every second Saturday (beginning May 27) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Grand Lake Road Fire Hall location in Sydney is moving on Sunday, May 28 to:

Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Lab Blood Collections/Ambulatory Care
1482 George St., Sydney
Hours of operation: Monday to Friday (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.), and Saturday and Sunday (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Public Health mobile units (PHMUs) provide another way for community members to access take-home rapid test kits and PCR tests with or without an appointment. If you require a test because you are experiencing symptoms, you may wish to book an appointment to ensure the type of test you need will be available. However, drop-ins are welcome. Learn more at www.nshealth.ca/PHMU.

Nova Scotia Health reminds people it’s important to get tested for COVID-19 to help protect themselves and their loved ones. Anyone with symptoms should get tested, but especially those 60+ or those who are immunocompromised.

All Nova Scotians should have a box of rapid tests in their homes for when someone starts experiencing symptoms.

If you are experiencing ONE or more symptom(s) of COVID-19, you have two options:

Take a rapid test. If you have a positive rapid test, complete the ‘Report & Support’ form by phone (1-833-797-7772) or online. If you test negative, repeat the test 48 hours later to be sure.

If eligible, book a PCR test and complete the ‘Report & Support’ form by phone (1-833-797-7772) or online. PCR tests will continue to be offered at a variety of health care facilities across the province or through Public Health Mobile Units. The Public Health mobile units also offer drop-in visits (no appointment required).

For more information on testing, visit www.nshealth.ca/coronavirustesting

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