In a joint statement issued Thursday, Dr. Bonnie Henry, Adrian Dix and Mike Farnworth commented on the recent reports of harassment of health-care workers at COVID-19 sites in the province.
“We have received reports of health-care workers at COVID-19 testing centres being intimidated, threatened and otherwise verbally harassed by some people seeking tests,” the statement read.
“The Government of B.C. recently brought into force the Access to Services Act to help protect the safety and well-being of health-care workers at testing centres, and impeding services or intimidating workers at these sites is illegal.”
BC Health officials are reminding the public that incidents of threats and aggressive behaviour will be reported to police.
“B.C.’s health-care workers are doing an exceptional job under the most challenging of circumstances. They deserve the support of all of us, particularly now as we work together to manage this next phase of the pandemic.”
Officials are reminding everyone the importance of following public health guidance on testing, to ensure tests are available for those who need them most.
You only need to be tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms. If you do not have symptoms do not attempt to access the testing services.
“If you have had a test recommended by a medical professional or the online COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool, please seek a COVID-19 test through your local health authority.”
If you are feeling unwell, stay away from others until you feel better. If you have severe symptoms, seek medical help right away.
As of this publication, there were 29,967 active cases in the province.
