Niagara opening the first of 2 COVID-19 assessment centres

Niagara Health is opening its firstCOVID-19 assessment centre today, andanother is on the way.

The agency has opened a centre behind the Greater Niagara General site in Niagara Falls, it said in a media release. Staff will screen, assess and test people for COVID-19 there by referral only. Another will open in St. Catharines next week.

Niagara residents who think they've been exposed to COVID-19 should call public health at 905-688-8248 ext. 7019. Based on that call, they may be told to self monitor, isolate at home, go tothe emergency department or go to the assessment centre.

The centre is at the Allied Health building at 5673 North St. and won't accept walk-ins.

Derek McNally, Niagara Health's executive vice president of clinical services, said the centre is an important part of Niagara's pandemic response.

"The centres will ensure potential cases are seen promptly and help reduce impact on the emergency department," he said in a media release.

The province also has a self-assessment tool.

Niagara has three COVID-19 cases right now. Symptoms include a fever, a new or worsening cough and difficulty breathing.

To reduce the risk of infection, wash your hands regularly, avoid large gatherings and stay two metres from other people.