With the outbreak of flu in Berks County expected to peak over the next three weeks, St. Joseph Medical Center will open a Rapid Flu Assessment Area in its Emergency Room in Bern Township to handle the growing volume of patients seeking care for flu-like symptoms.

The Rapid Flu Area will open Monday and will be in operation during the bulk of the time when patients with symptoms are arriving which is between noon and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. The facility will remain open until the outbreak abates.

Patients with flu-like symptoms should check in to the main emergency department in order for a professional triage nurse to fully assess their condition.