PLYMOUTH — Chief G. Edward Bradley is pleased to report that the Plymouth Fire Department recently assisted Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth with the set up of the hospital’s new COVID-19 testing site.
On Friday, April 10, Chief Bradley, Deputy Chief Neil Foley and firefighter Matthew Sullivan assisted the hospital with setting up the site, which opened today.
The department also provided generator power, a lighting tower, a heater for the tent and a message board that will provide instructions to the people scheduled to receive a test.
Testing is available by appointment only, and is intended for hospital workers and first responders from the hospital’s service area.
“The site will allow our local first responders access to testing right here in town, and receive results faster than before,” Chief Bradley said. “We would be able to receive results in approximately 12 hours if the need were to arise. We are grateful to the Town and hospital for partnering together to create this valuable resource.”
If more tests become available the site could expand or move to a larger location.
Health Guidance
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath, and can appear between two and 14 days after exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Anyone who experiences symptoms and believes they may have the virus is advised to contact their health care provider.
For more information from the CDC for those who may have the virus, click here.
Chief Bradley also wishes to encourage residents to follow recommended preventative steps from the DPH:
- Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds including under your fingernails. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol content) can be used when soap and water are not available.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing with a tissue and discard it immediately. Cough into the sleeve over your elbow instead of your hand. Wash your hands often when coughing and sneezing.
- Stay away from people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.
COVID-19 Information Resources
Plymouth officials encourage everyone to stay informed regarding COVID-19. The following websites are recommended for the most updated information:
- Town of Plymouth website: www.plymouth-ma.gov
- Plymouth Fire Department: www.plymouth-ma.gov/fire-department
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health: www.mass.gov/covid-19
- Massachusetts 2-1-1 general COVID-19 information: Click here or dial 2-1-1 (24/7)
- Sign up for the Massachusetts COVID-19 Text Message Notification System to receive important updates: Text “COVIDMA” to 888-777
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov
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