Options available for Strep A assessment for those with symptoms

(HORIZON) – If you or a loved one have symptoms of Strep A, there are options for assessment.

Group A Streptococcus (GAS, or, more commonly, Strep A) is a common bacteria that causes a number of different infections in people of all ages, such as strep throat, sinus infections, skin or wound infections, and fever and rash (scarlet fever). Most symptoms are mild. In some cases, an infection can lead to more severe disease.

Options for assessment across New Brunswick include:

• Appointments with primary care providers
• At after-hours clinics
• By accessing the eVisitNB virtual service, which will assess patients for Strep A
• By calling 811 to speak to a registered nurse, who can refer patients to a primary care provider for assessment and treatment
• There is also a Pharmacist Care Clinic pilot project at six locations in the province that includes assessment for Group A strep and providing treatment when necessary. (Please note that there are limited appointments available at those six participating pharmacies. Please be patient.)

If you do not have symptoms, you do not need to be assessed or tested.

Horizon Nurse Practitioners (NP) are supporting local pharmacies in Moncton and Fredericton by temporarily providing assessments a few days a week, during the evenings. A participating pharmacy may refer you to a Horizon NP for an assessment.

More information on Strep A is available on the Government of New Brunswick’s website.

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