Flu Assessment Centres closing after providing care to thousands

After serving nearly 3,000 people, most flu assessment centres (FACs) will deactivate their operations at the end of day Friday due to declining demand. One FAC at the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Community Centre will continue to operate.

“Flu assessment centres were launched to provide care to people with mild to moderate symptoms just as we saw a sharp increase in flu cases during the past few weeks,” said Dr. Isra Levy, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health. “This was a very successful part of our overall pandemic response, and I want to extend my sincere thanks to the organizations that came forward and assisted our community in this time of need.”

After the centres opened on November 4, local hospitals reported a decrease in the number of patients visiting emergency departments displaying flu-like symptoms. FACs were set up as an alternative for residents who did not have or could not immediately contact a family physician but who wanted their flu-like symptoms assessed.

The community health centres and the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health where the FACs have been located will resume primary health care for their clients as well as their social services and community programs. The Orléans Urgent Care Clinic will maintain its usual range of health services.

The Tungasuvvingat Inuit Community Centre will continue providing flu assessment services to its clients, since flu activity continues to rise among the local Inuit population.

Dr. Levy adds the number of new laboratory-confirmed cases in Ottawa is decreasing, but the H1N1 flu virus continues to circulate in the community.

“All residents are encouraged to get vaccinated as the best defence against the H1N1 flu virus,” said Dr. Levy.

While the majority of flu cases remain mild and can be cared for at home, people who are at greater risk of developing flu-related complications – such as seniors, toddlers, pregnant women and individuals with medical conditions – should see a physician or go to a walk-in clinic in the first 48 hours after onset of flu-like symptoms. As well, people seeing their symptoms quickly worsen should see a doctor or primary health care provider immediately.

People who are experiencing severe symptoms such as respiratory distress or passing out should go to the closest hospital for emergency care.

For more information on H1N1 and vaccination clinics, visit ottawa.ca/health or contact the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744.

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