LYNN — In response to nervousness about the COVID-19 virus spreading, Lynn Community Health Center has expanded its testing.
All people, regardless of whether they are experiencing the COVID-19 influenza-like symptoms or have come into potential contact with an infected person, can now be tested. Testing is held at the Element Care parking lot, 9 Buffum St. People who are not patients at the health center may also be tested.
According to a statement from Lynn Community Health Center spokeswoman Cindy Steger-Wilson, the move to expand testing is being made as communities reopen during the pandemic.
“As communities begin to open up from the pandemic lockdown and more people begin to circulate in the community, it will be important to keep a close eye on the virus and identify as quickly as possible areas where positive cases may be increasing,” Steger-Wilson said. “The best way to do this is making testing available
to anyone who thinks they may have been exposed, even if they are showing no symptoms.”
David Schaffner, director of COVID-19 testing and treatment at Lynn Community Health Center, said certain groups of people should consider getting tested.
“If you have been to a large gathering in the past two weeks, or if you think you have been in contact with someone who may have COVID-19, you should consider getting tested,” Schaffner said.
“This disease has a higher-than-normal percentage of asymptomatic cases, so the only way some people will know if they are infected is if they are tested,” he said. “Getting tested if you think you have been exposed is the best way to protect those around you, especially those who are older or who have underlying health conditions.”
According to Steger-Wilson, people who get tested at Lynn Community Health Center receive test results within a few days. Those who test positive are given instructions on “how to care for themselves and offered supportive services.”
Testing through Lynn Community Health Center is available seven days a week at the Buffum Street site. To make an appointment, call (781) 581-3900. Walk-in appointments are also available, but only in a limited capacity, Steger-Wilson said.
