Officially announced on Dec. 7, the is a partnership between hospitals and health teams in Wellington County, Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge.

A joint press release from the groups notes “with the respiratory illness season underway, more people are looking for health care” to treat colds and flus, as well as COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

The release notes “more than 65,000 people are without a family doctor across Waterloo and Wellington regions,” which means many people are going to emergency departments “for issues that can best be treated by a walk-in or urgent care clinic, via 811 (formerly TeleHealthOntario) or through virtual care.”

The new website aims to direct people to the care option that best fits their situation.

In addition to providing contacts for various health care providers in the region, including pharmacies and mental health services, it offers advice on the following topics:

• when to go to the emergency department;
• virtual care options;
• when to see a family doctor or nurse practitioner;
• when to go to a walk-in or urgent care clinic;
• COVID-19 information; and
• home and community care support services.

For more information visit .

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“Now that fall is upon us, we are seeing the rapid return of COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and seasonal flu,” stated Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, associate medical officer of health, in an Oct. 5 press release.

“Any of these viruses can pose serious health risks especially for those who are particularly vulnerable because of age or an underlying medical condition.”

Tenenbaum said everyone can reduce individual risk and protect the community by getting vaccinated as soon as possible, wearing a mask and staying home when ill.

“We know what works to keep us safe and well. I’m asking everyone to start making use of these tools right away,” he stated.

Appointments for one or both of the vaccines can be made by visiting the , by calling 1-800-265-7293 ext. 7006 or by contacting your primary care provider.

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