School staff can now get asymptomatic COVID tests in Waterloo region

Teachers and other school board staff in Waterloo region can now get a COVID-19 test at some local pharmacies.

The testing is aimed at staff who have potential concerns or who want peace of mind.

However, they cannot have symptoms or have been exposed to a case. Pharmacy testing is only available for those who are asymptomatic and everyone else must be tested at one of the region's assessment centres.

"I think it's great," said pharmacist Vishal Acharyaof the news. He owns the Lancaster Wellness Pharmacy in Kitchener one of the local pharmacies that offers asymptomatic testing.

"They're in contact with other staff members and they're in contact with other students. To check on a regular basis if they're COVID-free I think is a good way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19."

So far, Acharya said he hasn't fielded many requests from educators.

"I think it's because the word hasn't spread yet, so I'm expecting it to get pretty busy," he said.

Anyone who wants a COVID-19 test must call ahead of time to book an appointment and provide the name of their school or work location.

Pharmacies in Waterloo region that offer asymptomatic COVID-19 tests include:

• Shoppers Drug Mart 1500 King St. E., in Cambridge.
• Shoppers Drug Mart 235 Ira Needles Blvd.,in Kitchener.
• Lancaster Wellness Pharmacy 493 Lancaster St., in Kitchener.
• Town Square Pharmacy 100 Mill St., in New Hamburg.
• Shoppers Drug Mart 550 King St. N., in Waterloo.
• Shoppers Drug Mart 50 Weber St. N., in Waterloo.

More information about asymptomatic testing is available on the province's website.