Tri-City Sun

While tracking donations of personal protection equipment, such as N95 masks, the Bay County Health Department warned the public about hoaxes that offer COVID-19 tests and cures, according to reports.

Bay County Health Department Director Joel R. Strasz also issued an order directing reports of personal protection equipment donations and distributions to go to Bay County Emergency Services Director Ryan Manz, mlive.com reported on March 31. Public and nonprofit agencies have to provide information about the type of equipment, quantity and intended use.

“This is basically a formalizing what’s already existing, what’s already going on. It also gives us a good picture of what’s being donated out there and the different needs of the community, too," Strasz told mlive.com.

Strasz also warned the public about the sale of alleged COVID-19 test kits online.

“The fact is, the only way you can be tested at this point for COVID-19 is to receive authorization from your local health care provider,” Strasz told mlive.com. “I know as the days go on rapid testing will become more and more prevalent within health care settings, but these aren’t things that can be purchased or ordered online or in a store somewhere.”