Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) has issued a visitor policy for all MLHD hospitals to limit visitor numbers. The policy will restrict visitor numbers to one visitor per patient at any time.
“To protect the health of our vulnerable and elderly residents, we are appealing to members of the public to stay away from hospitals and aged care facilities if they feel unwell, or have symptoms of cold and flu,” explains Executive Director Medical Service Dr Lenert Bruce.
“We can all play a part in slowing the spread of the virus by reducing contact between people unless absolutely necessary, especially those in our population who may be more vulnerable or susceptible
to the illness because of age or weakened immunity.”
Visitors are also advised not to bring children under 12 years of age to the hospital.
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.
Anyone who believes they have may have contracted the COVID-19 virus (ie: who are returned travellers, or who have come in contact with a confirmed case and are showing symptoms: fever,
sore throat, dry cough and shortness of breath) are advised in the first instance to: • call HealthDirect 1800 022 222, where a nurse will triage them over the phone and advise as needed or
• call the Murrumbidgee COVID-19 Hotline 1800 831 099, where patients will be triaged and if testing is warranted, will be booked into an appointment based on location • contact your GP to arrange an appointment and let them know in advance if you have
symptoms TIPS to reduce potential for transmission of the virus:
• avoiding crowds and mass gatherings
• avoiding small gatherings in enclosed spaces
• keep a distance of 1.5 metres between themselves and other people
• avoiding shaking hands, hugging, or kissing other people
• avoiding 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