As the country experiences an unprecedented increase in COVID-19 related cases, it’s critical that we remain vigilant in our efforts to help stop the spread.
While the CDC’s recommended steps to stay safe; social distancing, mask wearing, proper hygiene, hand washing, and avoiding large gatherings, are important, another key step to take is getting tested.
While earlier this year tests were hard to come by, many states have expanded access to testing, and Boston is one of them. In fact, Boston has begun a new awareness campaign to let residents know and to encourage all residents to get tested and has launched “Get The Test Boston,” a pledge designed to encourage residents to get a COVID-19 test.
How it Works
Testing is available to all residents, and even though you may not be going outside of your home for work or other reasons, you may still have been exposed. Keep in mind, according to the CDC, even people showing no symptoms can still be infected with COVID-19 and transmit the virus.
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath. The most common method to acquire COVID-19 is through direct contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19. So, if you think you may be at risk – get tested.
Get Involved – Join the COVID-19 Testing Pledge
The City of Boston has recently initiated the COVID-19 Testing Pledge and is encouraging all businesses and residents to join.
The City of Boston is asking businesses to provide the following resources employees need to get tested, stop the spread of COVID-19, and avoid a setback in the reopening process.
Encourage all employees to consider getting tested, even if they don’t have symptoms, especially:
- anyone who may be experiencing COVID-like symptoms
- those at high risk for complications
- people in close contact with someone who is infected with COVID-19, and
- anyone who has traveled or been in large gatherings.
For all residents, testing centers and mobile locations are provided here and here.
Testing at the City of Boston’s mobile testing sites is completely free. Test for symptomatic individuals is also free.
At certain standing testing sites, the cost of asymptomatic tests may vary depending on your insurance provider. For City of Boston employees with either BCBS, Harvard Pilgrim, or Allways health plans, asymptomatic tests are not a covered benefit, but the mobile testing options are available to all.
Ready to take the COVID-19 Testing Pledge? You can join many other Boston area businesses like Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, Stop & Shop, and Wayfair, to name a few, by signing up today.
We’re Here to Help
Protecting yourself and others by following the CDC’s recommended safety protocols and joining the “Get The Test Boston” pledge can help reduce the risk of contracting the virus or spreading it to others.
In these challenging times, the risk of exposure is more prevalent than ever. We can also help with the following safety services:
COVID-19 CONSULTING BUNDLE – Written directive/policy on requirements which can be either a corporate policy or a site-specific policy.
COVID-19 TRAINING (INFECTION CONTROL WEBINAR) – We offer Open Enrollment Classes and Private Company Sponsored Classes made available at your convenience.
COVID19 TESTING – We now offer COVID-19 Testing Services For Colleges, Universities, Private Companies, And Public Agencies
If you have concerns about your workforce and coronavirus, please contact us today to learn about steps you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your employees.