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The B.C. Ministry of Health has launched a new online tool for people who aren't sure whether they require testing or assessment for COVID-19. It can be found at . The website asks about a person’s symptoms and recommends a course of action. Those include self-isolating for 14 days, calling HealthLink B.C. at 811, or calling 911, depending on the severity.

COVID-19 symptoms:
• Common symptoms include difficulty breathing, fever, coughing, sore throat, sneezing. Severity of symptoms can vary widely from person to person.  

If you develop symptoms:
• Isolate yourself from others.
• Phone the province's HealthLink line at 811, a health-care professional or the local public health authority. Describe your symptoms and travel history; you will be provided with advice on what to do next.

To protect yourself from infection:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Don't touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Maintain a distance of about two metres from other people.
• Don't share food and eating utensils.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.

For non-medical information about COVID-19 — such as advice on social distancing and travel — phone 1-888-268-4319 or text 604-630-0300. The service is available in multiple languages. 

Source: HealthLink B.C., B.C. Health Ministry