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Alberta Health Services will no longer test those with mild symptoms for COVID-19 if they have returned to the province since March 12 following travel, instead focusing on “groups at highest risk of local exposure.”

Those who travelled abroad prior to March 12 but don’t meet the new criteria are advised to self-isolate, AHS stated Monday.

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“This new approach, which has been adopted in other provinces, reflects the fact that the number one thing you can do if you have mild symptoms isn’t to get tested. It is to stay home and self-isolate away from others,” chief medical officer of health Dr. Deena Hinshaw said Monday.

“I understand some Albertans may be upset with this change. I can appreciate the comfort and certainty that testing can bring for those unsure whether they have a minor bug or COVID-19. It is important to remember that the majority of people who get COVID-19 will experience minor symptoms.”