BOSTON — Boston Mayor Marty Walsh has announced a new initiative called, “Get the Test Boston,” asking all city residents and employees to get tested for COVID-19.
Mayor Marty Walsh updates Boston’s COVID numbers. And he’s announcing a new effort to encourage people to get tested. It’s called “Get The Test Boston” and is a push to get individuals and businesses to commit to testing. Details on #Boston25 at 4 pic.twitter.com/DIKyRpTu8S
— John Monahan (@JohnMonahanTV) October 29, 2020
As of Thursday, the COVID-19 positivity rate in Boston has jumped to 8.2% according to Mayor Walsh.
As part of the initiative, local businesses, including the Boston Red Sox, the Boston Bruins, Stop & Shop, and Wayfair, have committed to ensuring employees know how and when to get tested for COVID-19.
Walsh is asking other businesses and residents to make a pledge to get a COVID-19 test.
Mayor Walsh announces a call to action for residents and businesses in the city. It’s called: “Get The Test Boston”. He says testing is dropping off. He’s now encouraging residents and businesses to get tested for free in the city. #Boston25
— John Monahan (@JohnMonahanTV) October 29, 2020
The mayor says city employees will be offered one paid hour every 14 days to get tested during their normal work hours. Workers will get their regular compensation for their time spent testing and they won’t have to use sick or personal time.
“Boston’s COVID-19 numbers are increasing, and our public health data is clear: we need more residents to get tested,” Walsh said. “We are entering a critical time in this pandemic, and everyone who does their part will save lives and make a difference.”
The City of Boston is encouraging all residents to consider getting tested for COVID-19, regardless of symptoms.
Residents should get tested if they:
· Are experiencing COVID symptoms, like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, among others
· Are at high risk for complications from COVID-19
· Have been in contact with someone who is infected with COVID-19
· Have traveled or been in large gatherings
There are more than 30 testing sites across the city. Free testing is also available at two mobile sites in Central Square in East Boston and Nubian Square in Roxbury.
You can find more information on the City of Boston’s new testing initiative here.
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