Dr. Susanne Schloegl's Undercurrent piece (Schloegl is one of two M.D.s who practice on the island) published earlier March 16 said that her Artisan Square office was conducting swab tests for "those with symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, or difficulty breathing) and history of travel or for those who have had close physical and prolonged contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19." This is no longer the criteria.
Schloegl provided this March 16 update from Vancouver Coastal Health:
"We are no longer to swab every returning traveller who is mildly ill. Swabs are to be reserved for:
1. Hospitalized or soon to be hospitalized patients
2. Healthcare workers with symptoms
3. Nursing home patients
(plus contact tracing done by Public Health)
"This means most people on Bowen will not fit the criteria for a swab," wrote Schloegl. "If you are mildly ill, please isolate yourself at home."
Earlier this afternoon Schloegl told the Undercurrent that at that moment she wasn't aware of anyone on-island who had tested positive.
Schloegl's piece earlier today had gone on to say:
"Rather than calling our office for advice, to find all the up to date information you need to know about the current situation in BC and to answer frequently asked questions, I request you consult the following resources:
BCCDC COVID-19 for the Public
BCCDC COVID-19 for Health Care Professionals
HealthLink BC 8-1-1
Please join our healthcare team in keeping our community as safe from this illness as possible. Do you your part to help 'flatten the curve,' keep an eye on your fellow islanders in need and know we are all in this together."
