Alberta Health Services repurposes COVID-19 online assessment tool

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has repurposed the COVID-19 online assessment tool to manage the rising number of respiratory illnesses in the province.

The recycled website will allow families and their children to have access to information that can help them take care of themselves from home, and know when it’s a good time to visit the doctor. Meanwhile, AHS says people with severe cases should seek urgent medical care.

“Building off the success of our COVID-19 online assessment tool, which has been accessed over 15M times, we have released an updated version with guidance and advice for a range of respiratory illnesses,” said Dr. Kristin Klein, medical officer of health, AHS. “This tool is an example of the steps that AHS is taking to ensure that the guidance we provide to adults and parents is reflecting the current reality of the mix of viruses this respiratory illness season.”

AHS says the updated version of the tool comes amid the rise in the number of children and Albertans getting sick.

“This is another tool, in addition to other available resources such as the HEAL website, to help know your options and use appropriate care whether that be in-home or elsewhere,” Dr. Klein added. “Above all, however, we strongly encourage all Albertans to get immunized against influenza and COVID-19 this season, stay home when sick and do everything we can to reduce the spread of illness in our communities.”

The tool is available online and can be used on smartphones and computers. AHS also encourages people who do not have access to smart devices to continue to call 811.

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AHS also says PCR tests are still an option Albertans can use through the updated tool, and rapid test kits are still available at pharmacies.

Meanwhile, AHS encourages people to remain vigilant and stay at home when feeling sick, as the holidays are on the door.

“To prevent the spread of any illness, we encourage frequent hand washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. It’s also important to cover coughs, and avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands,” said AHS. “Albertans are also encouraged to wear a well-fitting, high-quality mask in public places if they choose to do so. Book your influenza and COVID-19 immunizations at ahs.ca/vaccine.”

For information about the updated tool, visit the AHS website.