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COOROY RAG
Advice regarding Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Stand apart but let’s work together As we are all aware the Coronavirus pandemic is sweeping across the globe. At time of print there are 756 cases in Australia, 144 of those in Queensland, including confirmed cases on the Sunshine Coast. The Government has put a limit on non essential gatherings of 100 inside and 500 people outside. Multiple sporting events, concerts and festivals have been cancelled. These measures have been taken to slow down or contain the spread of the vius so our health system can function effectively. We need to have enough beds and intensive care equipment to treat those who will need it. Anyone arriving from overseas is to self-quarantine for 14 days. We are all to be aware of social distancing, meaning keeping at 1.5 metres away from each other, no handshaking, kissing or hugs. We are to be rigorous about handwashing. We are to wipe down surfaces and sneeze or cough into our elbows, and to stay home if we are sick. We need to take these precautions seriously to minimise the health, social and economic ramifications this virus will have in our community.
Page 12 - Cooroy Rag, March 25, 2020
The main advice from our Government is to stay informed by visiting the Qld Government Health Website https://www.qld.gov.au/ health/conditions/health-alerts/coronaviruscovid-19 The following information is current from date of print (March 20, 2020): If you are concerned that you have Coronavirus (From the Qld Government Health website): If you develop a fever, a cough, sore throat or shortness of breath within 14 days of overseas travel, contact a doctor or call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84). The website also has an online quiz asking: 1. Are you feeling unwell with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough or shortness of breath. 2. Have you travelled overseas within the last 14 days. 3. Have you been in contact with someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19. If you answer ‘Yes’ to any of these questions you are advised to: See a doctor immediately. Call ahead to your GP or emergency department and mention your symptoms and travel history so they can prepare for your visit. Cooroy Family Medical has advised that the Government has now made Telehealth consults available. After this consult you may be sent for testing at QML. Your doctor will send a referral to QML and you will need to make an appointment. There are two QML testing centres on the Sunshine Coast. One at Noosaville and one at Mountain Creek. If you have not been overseas within the last
14 days or have not been in contact with anyone with a confirmed case of COVID-19 you will not be tested for novel coronoavirus (COVID-19). You will be advised to monitor your symptoms and stay home as “it is more likely you have another virus like a cold or influenza”. Queensland Health is encouraging all people who are unwell to stay home to prevent the spread of germs.
Sunshine Coast Fever Clinic locations Fever clinics have been activated in the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service region: • Caloundra Health Service’s Minor Injury and Illness Clinic • Virtual Clinic (available with a referral via GP, 13HEALTH, public health unit or other healthcare provider) • Sunshine Coast University Hospital • Gympie Hospital • Nambour General Hospital Nurses will be stationed just inside the emergency department entrances to pre-triage patients and direct them straight to the clinics as necessary.
Do you need help? The Cooroy Rag has opened up its Facebook Page so we can all do what we can to help each other. If you need help with anything or can offer help with anything please use the Cooroy Rag Community Newspaper’s Facebook Page to connect.
Queensland Health advice is to always have some extra food at home and other supplies like medications and baby needs or pet food, however there is no need to excessively stockpile anything. Qld Health suggests to prepare an emergency kit to last for 14 days.
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