The BC Liberals are urging the NDP government to use its stockpile of COVID-19 rapid tests to give more protection to those living and working in long-term care homes (LTC) and assisted living facilities.<\/p>\n
The B.C. government needs to follow the lead of other provinces which pre-emptively screen and test asymptomatic LTC staff to help prevent outbreaks before they can endanger our seniors,\" says Interim BC Liberal Leader and Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond.<\/p>\n
\"We must do everything we can to protect those most at risk of COVID-19.\"<\/p>\n
The requestcomes as a result of the recent rise in COVID-19 outbreaks in British Columbia's long-term care homes and assisted living facilities.<\/p>\n
It was reported that1,364 residents and 669 staff having been infected with the virus in the province.<\/p>\n
Despite receiving a stockpile of COVID-19 rapid tests in November, the Health Canada-approved rapid tests have seen limited use in care homes.<\/p>\n
\"While a systematic rapid testing program isnt a silver bullet to stop all deaths in long-term care we need Premier Horgan to ensure that adequate resources are provided to put this additional layer of protection in place for the most vulnerable British Columbians, Bond said.<\/p>\n
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said Monday (Jan. 11) the province is \"looking at\"using the rapid tests in care homes.<\/p>\n
She previously said they were not being used because the tests \"have faults and limitations.\"<\/p>\n
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See more here:<\/p>\n
Shirley Bond, BC Liberals appeal for use of extra COVID-19 rapid tests - Vancouver Is Awesome<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The BC Liberals are urging the NDP government to use its stockpile of COVID-19 rapid tests to give more protection to those living and working in long-term care homes (LTC) and assisted living facilities. The B.C. government needs to follow the lead of other provinces which pre-emptively screen and test asymptomatic LTC staff to help prevent outbreaks before they can endanger our seniors,\" says Interim BC Liberal Leader and Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. Continue reading