Our city’s situation is moving at a rapid pace with our public health officials working in tandem with the provincial and federal governments to keep us healthy.

There are a lot of resources in place to support you as we continue to play our part in preventing further transmission of COVID-19. Here a few you’ll want to have on your radar.

• The COVID-19 case assessment centre at Brewer Arena operates every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. You do not need to call for a referral, Ottawa Public Health says you should go directly to the centre if you have a new cough or fever, or if those two symptoms are getting worse, and you have been out of the country in the past few weeks or you have encountered someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. If you are tested, this will involve a swab from your throat and nose.

• If you need to self-isolate or if you are sick, Ottawa Public Health is encouraging you to stay home. Not everyone is in a situation with easy access to time off. The health organization has written a generic sick note you can send to your employer.
• If you think you may have COVID-19, the Ontario government has a self-assessment tool you can use. This will help you determine the best course of action to get medical attention without furthering transmission.
• The Premier recently announced the province is expanding its Telehealth coverage. This is a confidential phone line that is available 24/7. The province asks you use the self-assessment tool before calling Telehealth.
• If you are feeling anxious or upset by how COVID-19 is impacting your life, you can give the Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region a call. The 24/7 helpline says they are experiencing high call volumes, but if you can wait a little bit longer than usual, someone will speak with you.
• COVID-19 is having financial impacts that may translate to your food security. There are services in the city that here to help. Food banks are continuing to operate, with some accommodations to prevent any spread of the virus. Here’s a list of what’s available near you. If you or someone you know is a senior or immunocompromised citizen, you can also check out our list grocery stores with exclusive hours so you can feel safe while you grocery shop.

• The United Way of Eastern Ontario has launched a website dedicated to COVID-19. This includes resources for vulnerable groups to ways that you can support your community.