News

Mallee communities urged to take care when out and about

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 04:37:00

PEOPLE across the Mallee are being urged to travel only when necessary, as Victoria continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.

While lockdown restrictions are not in place across the local region, Mallee Track Health and Community Service CEO Lois O’Callaghan has urged people to think twice about moving around the community.
“Everyone is being asked to use common sense when it comes to visiting friends and family, especially those who are more vulnerable. That means seeing only those you need to – if you need to,” she said.
“It is common sense that the more you move around, the more people you will come in contact with, and the more opportunities there will be for infection. Only moving around our communities when you absolutely have to is the right thing to do.”
Ms O’Callaghan noted a recently confirmed case of COVID-19 in the Swan Hill local government area was a reminder that the virus is never far away.
“Ouyen and Sea Lake are on major highways and we are seeing a number of people passing through our communities, which increases the risk we will be exposed to COVID-19,” she said.
“We are some distance from major hospitals and we don’t have medical specialists able to be on-hand immediately to treat a case of COVID-19, so we have to continue to be vigilant about doing what we can to keep ourselves safe.”
Ms O’Callaghan said the best defences against COVID-19 were practicing good hand hygiene; keeping at least 1.5 metres away from others; understanding the risks and symptoms; and getting tested, even if symptoms are mild.
“Everyone has a role to play in slowing the spread of COVID-19 and getting tested when you are unwell is vitally important. Get tested and then stay at home until you have your results,” Ms O’Callaghan said.
The COVID-19 symptoms are fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and loss of sense of smell. The test is free for everyone.
If you have flu-like symptoms, call ahead before arriving at a MTHCS medical clinic to be tested.
MTHCS can be contacted on 5092 1111 for further information.

Pictured (left to right): MTHCS staff members Kim Coffey (Receptionist), Jan Winkler (Nurse Practitioner) and Laura Hayter (Receptionist) reminding everyone to get COVID-19 tested, even if your symptoms are mild.