Guidelines to follow during pandemic
By GILLIAN SLADE on March 27, 2020.
gslade@medicinehatnews.com@MHNGillianSlade Mandatory 14-day self-isolation for returning international travellers or close contacts of people with confirmed COVID-19 Mandatory 10-day self-isolation for people with symptoms that are not related to a pre-existing illness or health condition: cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose or sore throat. Violation of mass gathering restrictions are now legally enforceable and subject to fines. You can report a violation online: https://ephisahs.microsoftcrmportals.com/create-case/ If you have symptoms that could be COVID-19: Self-isolate immediately and behave as if you have a positive test. Do the assessment test online or call Health Link 811. https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/topics/Page16944.aspx A COVID-19 assessment centre recently opened at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. Alberta Health Services is stressing that the protocol in order to be referred there is only through Health Link or as a result of an assessment online. You cannot be referred there by your doctor and you must not go to the emergency department if you have COVID-19 symptoms. The emergency department is obviously still open for those with other health emergency issues. AHS says it is still appropriate to call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency as a result of COVID-19 symptoms such as difficulty breathing. A spokesperson says it is important when calling 911 to state up front that you either are positive for COVID-19 or suspect you are. Support for seniors at home: Alberta Health says seniors should call 211 if they need help finding resources in their community. File a consumer complaint: If you see prices for products or services skyrocket because of COVID-19 you can report it: 1-877-427-4088. Road Tests: Effective March 20, Alberta commercial and passenger road tests were suspended for four weeks. If you already have a test scheduled you can rebook for a test after April 20 at no additional charge. 19-18
