News

Reach out and survive lockdown

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 06:53:00

MALLEE residents are being urged to reach out and support each other through the next six weeks of lockdown, amid concerns about the impact of Stage 3 restrictions on the wellbeing of local communities.

In response to the continued high rate of COVID-19 infections, Victoria has moved from a State of Emergency to a State of Disaster and regional Victoria has returned to Stage 3 “Stay at Home” restrictions.
The restrictions mean there are only four reasons for people to leave their home:  shopping for food and essential items; care and caregiving; daily exercise; work and study, if this can’t be done from home.
“Naturally, many people will be feeling disappointed about this return to lockdown, and worried about what it will mean for them and their loved ones, but we will get through this by looking out for  each other,” Mallee Track Health and Community Services Chief Executive Officer Lois O’Callaghan said.
“We know how to do this, we’ve done it before and we can do it again to keep our region safe from COVID-19.”
Face masks/coverings must be worn if leaving home for one of the four reasons permitted under the restrictions.
“All the temporary sacrifices we make now – all the time missed with friends and family, the celebrations that need to be delayed – those sacrifices will help keep us all safe,” Ms O’Callaghan said.
“It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious and worried about things and how the restrictions will disrupt your routines, but it’s important to stay connected.
“Take the time to phone your mates, check in on your family and reach out to those around you. Ask them if they are ok, even if they look ok. It’s a small thing to do that can make a big difference.”
Ms O’Callaghan urged local residents to think about what they could do to help others at this time.
“We all have a role to play in ensuring that our communities are as safe and healthy as they can be and that everyone has access to the support and provisions they need,” she said.
MTHCS medical clinics in Sea Lake and Ouyen continue to provide COVID-19 testing for those with symptoms.
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 to be tested.
MTHCS can be contacted on 5092 1111 for further information.