People with flu-like symptoms should use Flu Assessment Centre

New Glasgow, NS - The Pictou County Health Authority is asking that people who are experiencing flu-like symptoms and wish to see a health care professional to visit the flu assessment centre instead of going to the Aberdeen Hospital emergency department.

"The flu assessment centre is the most appropriate place for people with flu symptoms," said Janice Kaffer, vice president of clinical services for the Pictou County Health Authority. "The centre is also for patients who have been assessed but their condition has worsened. These patients are encouraged to return to the assessment centre."

"The average time it takes to be registered and assessed is less than one hour, which is much shorter than the wait in the emergency department. The centre is easing congestion at the hospital as well as helping prevent the spread of flu to other people waiting in the emergency department," she said.

People who go to the assessment centre are seen by a registered nurse for assessment and, depending on their symptoms, are seen by either a family doctor or a nurse practitioner.

The flu assessment centre is located in the former Convergys building located at 610 East River Road in New Glasgow. It will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from November 16 - 20, and from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on November 21 & 22.

With the increasing amount of flu activity, and changing information around H1N1 and flu symptoms, people may be confused or unsure about what they should do when they are experiencing flu symptoms. An influenza decision chart, available at www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/h1n1/illness will help people make decisions about when to seek medical attention.

The assessment centre will not provide vaccinations for seasonal or H1N1 flu, will not swab patients to confirm H1N1 and will not offer inpatient care.

Additional centre hours will be advertised when confirmed. Clinic hours may be changed to accommodate demand and resources.

Appointments are not necessary for this centre, but people do need to bring their health card.

As with any medical emergency, if you are severely ill, you should seek immediate help by going to your nearest emergency department or calling 911.