Links for information, advice and resources available for coronavirus (COVID-19) from the Department of Health, NSW Health Murrumbidgee Local Health District, and the Australian Government.
Sussans Ley's electorate offices in Albury and Griffith remain open.
If you have a question or concern, please telephone:
Albury: 02 6021 2364
Griffith: 02 6964 1212
 
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COVID-19 prevention guidelines issued to Aged Care providers
Residential aged care providers will be encouraged to limit visits under national guidelines aimed at the prevention and control of coronavirus.
Aged Care Minister Richard Colbeck said the advice from the Communicable Disease Network of Australia issued to aged care facilities around Australia outlines the precautionary measures for residents, staff and their families as the Federal Government continues to implement strategies to contain the virus.
It includes the recommendation that family and friends limit visits to residential care centres, particularly for residents already suffering from chronic illness.
The Health Department will continue to work with aged care peak bodies to finalise more detailed guidance developed by the Communicable Diseases Network (CDN) regarding visitor access, the management of non-compliant residents and physical distancing.
It follows the release of AHPPC recommendations for wider distancing measures.
Minister Colbeck said the measures are of most importance for people over 60, particularly those with chronic illness.
The Chief Medical Officer has also written to the aged care sector with advice about preparedness to support aged care recipients.
It’s hoped the implementation of the guidelines will reinforce the Australian Government’s comprehensive $2.4 billion health package which includes allocations to fund a new Medicare telehealth service, a dedicated COVID-19 national hotline, bulk-billed pathology tests within aged care facilities and infection control training for residential and in home aged care workers.
Additional advice will be provided following further considerations by the CDN.
Fact sheets are available at the Department of Health’s website
https://www.health.gov.au/ and will be updated as new information becomes available.
A 24-hour Coronavirus Health Information Line, run by healthdirect, has also been set up for public enquiries at 1800 020 080.
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Helping to stop the spread of coronavirus is something that we can all do. Watch this video for practical tips
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Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) have plans in place for COVID-19 testing and are prepared to respond to Coronavirus.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) hospitals and staff are well equipped to deal with infectious illness, including COVID-19. Emergency Departments, Intensive Care Units and specialised treatment and isolation areas are available in the event that we need to care for patients with COVID-19.
The national COVID-19 hotline 1800 020 0780 remains open for anyone seeking information on coronavirus. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Emergency Departments continue to provide emergency care across the District.
People requiring non-emergency care should continue to contact their local General Practitioner. Health Direct is available for free health advice on 1800 022 22 or visit www.healthdirect.gov.au
NSW Health recently broadened the testing criteria for COVID-19 and MLHD has expanded further to include any person with symptoms of respiratory illness, regardless of travel or contact history.
This will provide for a better understanding of the prevalence of COVID-19 in our communities as well as early identification of any cases to prevent further transmission.
COVID-19 Testing Clinics are currently located in Cootamundra, Deniliquin, Griffith, Hay, Leeton, Tumut, and Wagga Wagga. Appointments are essential by calling 1800 831 099.
REMEMBER:
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, sore throat and dry cough. Symptoms will generally appear 3-4 days after exposure to the virus but can be up to 14 days later.
Members of the public are advised to minimise travel, increase personal awareness around hand hygiene and practice social distancing.
DO YOU NEED TO BE SCREENED?
Anyone who believes they have may have contracted the COVID-19 virus (ie: who have come in contact with a confirmed case or are showing symptoms: fever, sore throat, dry cough and shortness of breath) are advised in the first instance to:
NSW Health is recommending people with acute, cold, flu-like symptoms who are returned travellers, or a contact of a confirmed case, be tested for COVID-19.
- Call the free-call coronavirus hotline 1800 022 222 and receive advise on the
best course of action depending on your symptoms and risks. Medical staff will
direct people to the nearest hospital or respiratory clinic, or advise them to stay
home and self-monitor, or contact their GP, or
- Contact your GP to arrange an appointment and let them know in advance if you have symptoms (Symptoms might include fever, cough, runny nose or shortness of breath)
- Call the Murrumbidgee COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 831 099 for assessment (7.00
am – 9.00 pm)
- For serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, call Triple Zero (000) for urgent medical help.
TIPS to reduce potential for virus transmission
- Wash your hands regularly
- Stay home as much as possible
- Stop shaking hands, hugging, or kissing other people
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly
- Avoid visiting vulnerable people, such as those in aged care facilities or hospitals.
MLHD and MPHN encourage members of the public who need information to visit the NSW Health website at: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/diseases
MLHD Statement - COVID-19 Hotline 6 April 2020
**** If you are concerned if you may have come into contact with someone please call the National Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you require translating or interpreting services, call 131 450, or call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptom Checker
COVID-19 Resources from the Department of Health
Murrumbidgee Local Health District
COVID-19 – frequently asked questions
NSW Government COVID-19 updates
NSW Health - COVID-19 update centre
Federal Department of Health COVID-10 updates
Prime Ministers of Australia Media Centre
Other Links
Treasury economic response overview
https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus
Government support for workers and business
Government Economic response to COVID-19
NSW COVID-19 Public Health Laws and Police Powers factsheet