COVID testing

COVID-19 testing hub coming to Prince George

Jun 25, 2021 | 10:46 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — A rapid COVID-19 testing program is coming to Prince George.

It comes courtesy Whitecap Risk and Safety Consultants and is already open to the public at airport testing hubs in Richmond (YVR South), Kelowna, Nanaimo and Terrace. The testing hub for Prince George is coming next week. Bookings can be made at www.whitecapcovidtesting.com.

The following testing options are available:

  • A Rapid Antigen test detects specific protein fragments from SARS-Cov-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, even if someone is asymptomatic. Test results are provided in as little as 30 minutes, and are accepted for travel to multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany.
  • A PCR test detects viral genetic material that is specific to SARS-Cov-2, and can detect teh virus within days of infection, even without symptoms. Test results are provided within 48 hours and are accepted by most airlines and countries.

Both testing methods require a “shallow” bi-nasal swab, or bilateral anterior swab, where a cotton tipped wand is inserted in both nostrils for five seconds.

“With the world starting to open up, and British Columbians seeking opportunities to travel for work and leisure, we are pleased to make our teams of health professionals and COVID-19 safety experts available to the public, and to companies seeking customized solutions to protect their workers,” said Chris Geisler, Managing Partner, Whitecap Risk and Safety Consultants.

“By working together, we can re-invigorate our local economy to create and protect jobs across British Columbia, while also keeping our communities safe as the pandemic continues to affect our lives.”