Things are evolving very quickly regarding who we direct to assessment centres. There were many people seen yesterday (March 16, 2020) who were neither ill nor swabbed. Many had mild illness and were only there because of a history of travel and our own understandable confusion about the changing landscape.
Here is what you need to know:
Only people who are unwell should go to the assessment centres.
Key question
Would you be seeking care if it weren’t for COVID-19? Many seen last night said no. These people should not be sent to assessment centres simply because the result of swabbing will not impact their care.
A travel history is not a reason to be swabbed unless someone is unwell.
Most people with a travel history will not be swabbed.
Before you refer someone for assessment, please first establish that they are unwell and then ask about travel or exposure to a known or probable case.
At this time of year, many people have travelled and everyone knows someone who is sick. This is not a reason to send to an assessment centre.
The vast majority of people with a travel history, mild illness and/or contact with other travelers or sick people should be told to self-isolate at home for 14 days.
Self-isolation handout — please note that this references wearing a mask, which many patients do not currently have access to
In the coming days we will likely implement a two stage process at both assessment centres. We anticipate patients will be pre-screened outside to ensure they are “unwell” enough to qualify for testing. If not, they may be turned away. Stay tuned for updates.
Self-isolation handout — please note that this references wearing a mask, which many patients do not currently have access to