News

MBH remains COVID-19 ready

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 02:25:00

Mildura Base Hospital remains on a COVID-19 readiness footing, and will do so for the foreseeable future, despite the relaxing of restrictions in the broader community.

A gradual easing of restrictions is being allowed across the State, but the coordinator of Mildura Base Hospital’s COVID-19 pandemic response Dr Alison Walker said there is no change to the way the hospital has been operating for almost two months.
“The easing of the restrictions shouldn’t be read as a sign that this is over, or even that the worst is over,” Dr Walker said.
“It may very well not be, and from our community’s point of view, there is a lot at stake if we relax too soon,” she said.
Dr Walker, MBH Director of Intensive Care and Anaesthetics, said a State of Emergency remained in place across the State for good reason.
“From a hospital point of view, we need to remain on the front foot in terms of readiness, for anything that might eventuate,” she said.
“Throughout this pandemic, we have very strict controls in place for the management of any patient who reports with symptoms that might be associated with COVID-19.
“We are continuing to treat symptomatic patients through the COVID-19 pathway and we will keep those arrangements in place until it is safe to do otherwise.”
Doctor Walker said as the State opened up and more people started moving about, there was an increased risk of more cases emerging locally. 
“Because of our isolation, by following the rules and working together, it has put us in the fortunate position of having a great opportunity to control the spread of COVID-19 into our community,” she said.
“We haven’t had a case here for more than a month. But that doesn’t mean we are safe going forward and we need to continue to remain vigilant.
“As the restrictions change and winter weather moves in, it’s as important as ever that everyone keeps doing their bit for the community.
“The message is simple, and it’s up to all of us.  Do ‘the three’- Keep up the social distancing, keep washing your hands often; and if you are feeling unwell, stay home and get tested for COVID-19 if you meet the testing guidelines.”