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COVID-19: Victoria gets testing clinic; more to come across Island Health

Patients must be referred by their primary care provider or an 811 nurse
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Island Health has opened a referral only testing clinic in Victoria to help with the COVID-19 pandemic. (Black Press Media file photo)

Island Health has opened a referral-only COVID-19 screening clinic in Victoria to help support testing people for the virus.

In partnership with the Ministry of Health and the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, testing at the clinic will occur by appointment only for people who have been referred by their primary care provider or an 8-1-1 nurse.

According to Island Health, the risk to British Columbians and Vancouver Island residents remains low despite a number of confirmed cases in the province.

The province has identified seven new cases as of Thursday, for a total of 53.

Island Health asks if you feel you are experiencing symptoms such as a new fever, dry cough or difficulty breathing, you’re asked to contact your primary care provider or call HealthLink BC at 811 to be assessed.

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People living in Greater Victoria who are assessed as requiring follow-up will be directed to call the clinic. A triage nurse at the clinic will then assess referred patients over the phone to determine if an appointment for testing is needed.

“It is important that people do not call or attend the screening clinic unless referred by a primary care provider or an 811 nurser,” reads a statement from Island Health.

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According to the statement, Island Health is actively working to open COVID-19 referral-only screening clinics in other regions of the Island including Nanaimo, Campbell River and the Comox Valley.

Island Health is also reminding the public to avoid unnecessary visits to emergency departments. If you’re concerned you may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, it is important you call your primary care provider or 811 first for assessment and direction. If you are experiencing an emergency and require immediate medical attention, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

For the most accurate and current updates visit bccdc.ca. People are encouraged to check back regularly.

To read more about the coronavirus visit vicnews.com/tag/coronavirus.



kendra.crighton@blackpress.ca

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