Alberta Health Services (AHS) has launched an updated respiratory assessment tool to offer guidance to people about how to manage respiratory viruses, how to care for symptoms at home, and when to seek additional 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 AHS Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kristin Klein in a Wednesday press release..“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.”.The release said the respiratory assessment tool was used to analyze COVID-19 symptoms and book PCR testing, but the updated system will provide insight on all respiratory virus symptoms. It said this approach will bring COVID-19 management in line with other respiratory diseases such as RSV and influenza. .There has been an uptick in respiratory illnesses across Alberta and an influx of pediatric acute care facilities. The release said the tool will provide Albertans with another option to obtain tangible advice for symptom management. .It said the tool will guide people to the best care options for their symptoms, including self-care at home or seeking care at a walk-in clinic, family physician, or pharmacy for mild to moderate symptoms. People with severe symptoms will be recommended to seek care at an urgent care centre or an emergency department. .The tool can be accessed online from a computer, mobile phone, or handheld device. If people are unable to use the tool by themselves, Albertans can call Health Link at 811 for assistance. .As respiratory virus cases continue to climb across Alberta and with the holiday season coming up, the release said AHS encourages people to stay home and away from others when feeling sick. It added it encourages frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to prevent the spread of illnesses. .People are asked to cover their coughs and avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. They are encouraged to wear a well-fitting, high-quality mask in public places if they choose to do so. .Klein said the respiratory assessment tool will help people “know your options and use appropriate care whether that be in-home or elsewhere.”.“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,” she said. .New eligibility and operational changes to Alberta’s PCR testing plan came into effect in July. .READ MORE: Alberta changes COVID-19 PCR testing program.Tests in clinical treatment would need a referral from a healthcare worker, and some testing locations changed. .Albertans who needed PCR testing had to provide a referral from a doctor. These included people receiving outpatient treatment, pregnant women with symptoms, and people who have been referred for testing.
