Earlier this week, the province opened up COVID-19 testing to asymptomatic people in the Calgary zone.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw announced the measure this past Monday in order to get more information about the potential asymptomatic spread of the virus.

Within the first three days of the announcement, Dr. Hinshaw said approximately 6,000 people had registered for the asymptomatic testing.

During Friday's COVID-19 update, Hinshaw said approximately 1,500 tests had been completed so far, which resulted in the identification of 50 asymptomatic COVID-19 cases.

"It is important to note first of all, that I do not have information on how many of these are asymptomatic close contacts of confirmed cases and how many have no known exposure," said Hinshaw. "Secondly, it is important to know that we do not yet have the full investigation on all these cases."

Hinshaw says based on similar asymptomatic tests done in other jurisdictions, that upon further reflection, those who initially report no symptoms end up identifying mild symptoms they may have experienced.

Anyone who lives in the Calgary zone, works outside the home, and isn't feeling sick but wants to be tested has been advised to register for a test through the online assessment tool.

Asymptomatic testing will continue in the Calgary zone throughout the long weekend and Dr. Hinshaw says she expects to have further information next week.

 

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