Hamilton increases testing capacity due to surge in COVID-19 cases

Hamilton Public Health is increasing its testing capacity and reopening an assessment centre due to a recent surge in COVID-19 cases.

In a news release, the city of Hamilton said the decision was made to meet the needs of residents as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.

Officials are also anticipating increased volumes in September as students return to school.

The West End Assessment Centre at 690 Main St. West will resume operations seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting Wednesday. The site will begin with a capacity of 200 tests daily and gradually increase to 500.

The St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton Mountain COVID-19 Testing Centre at Mohawk College on Fennell Ave. West has expanded its hours to Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The site has the capacity to provide 1,000 tests daily.

Assessment centres will only test those who fall within the Ontario provincial guidelines. They do not provide tests needed for travel, or for those looking to attend public events.

The city of Hamilton says symptomatic testing will continue to take place to help vulnerable populations such as those in long-term care facilities and retirement homes, and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Mobile testing teams will continue to be operated by Hamilton Paramedic Service for those who are homebound, in addition to offering mobile testing in areas with low vaccine uptake and high COVID-19 rates.

Residents can visit www.HamiltonCovidTest.ca to book an appointment for a test in Hamilton.