Health & Medical Resources

The Public Health Agency of Canada
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is working with provinces, territories, and international partners, including the World Health Organization, to actively monitor the situation. As efforts continue across Canada to increase overall vaccine coverage and lower community transmission, public health measures remain the foundation of the pandemic response.

The public health risk of getting COVID-19 is evolving daily and varies between and within communities. Overall, the risk to most people in Canada remains high. This doesn’t mean that everyone will get COVID-19. However, it means that there’s already a significant impact on our health care system and transmission is occurring in many communities.

To protect yourself and others, be mindful of the risk of exposure to the virus, and consistently follow personal preventive practices and public health advice where you live. You can find more information on the PHAC’s COVID-19 Risks page.

For any questions, call the Health Canada COVID-19 information line: 1-833-784-4397, or email: phac.info.aspc@canada.ca

BC Centre for Disease Control 
The British Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) is a key partner of the provincial government. It is the central resource for British Columbians to hear updates and learn more about COVID-19 in BC, including case counts, BC Government statements, protective and preventative measures to take, plus the latest advice and resources from officials.

The World Health Organization (WHO)
On March 11, 2020, WHO declared COVID-19 to be a global pandemic. WHO coordinates the international COVID-19 response and publishes it on its website guidance, recommendations, reports, and any other information that can help countries and individuals to respond to COVID-19. On May 5, 2023, the WHO declared that COVID-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue which no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

Medical Support

• Anyone who begins to feel ill can seek medical attention at local hospitals or urgent care centres.
• Symptoms of COVID-19 include, but are not limited to, fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue and difficulty breathing.
• Note: In suspected cases of COVID-19, it is important to call ahead to the hospital, doctor or urgent care centre first for advice. Where language may be a barrier, businesses can provide support by offering to contact a health-care professional on their behalf.
• Those who suspect they might have COVID-19 symptoms, should provide health-care professionals with the following info (via phone):
  • Symptoms;
  • Where they have been travelling, working or living;
  • If they had close contact with a sick person, especially someone with a fever, cough or difficulty breathing.
• For non-emergency situations only, call 8-1-1, or for the deaf and hard of hearing, call 7-1-1. This is a free-of-charge provincial health information and advice phone line operated by HealthLink BC. Translation services are available in more than 130 languages.
• In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1.
• Find the nearest hospital or health centre here.