NOTE: This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and updates will be provided as information on the virus becomes clearer. All information will be derived from official Government sources.
With 13 confirmed cases (as at 5 Feb 2020) in Australia, 20,645 confirmed cases internationally and a global fatality rate of 2.07%, Novel Coronavirus is continuing to prove concerning for people and governments everywhere. The Australian government has implemented highly precautionary measures to detect and control the virus spreading further. Some practical information is below for you, your staff and others
If you need to travel internationally / through China:
– Dept of Foreign Affairs and Trade have upgraded their travel warning to China to Level 4: do not travel.
– Reconsider or manage your travel bookings to avoid China
– If you have been travelling in or transited through mainland China on or after 1 February 2020, you must isolate yourself until 14 days after leaving China
– If you have had close contact with a confirmed case, you must isolate yourself for 14 days after the last contact.
What does isolation mean?
– Avoid situations where you could infect other people. Close contact means to be within 1 metre of another person.
– This means any situation where you may come in close contact with others including work, school, child-care, shopping centres, sporting events, restaurants, church and public gatherings etc.
– You should minimise contact with others that you may live with as much as possible, including not sharing rooms, dishes, drinking glasses, eating utensils, towels or bedding.
– Always practice good personal hygiene including cough and sneeze hygiene (using tissues to catch coughs and sneezes, washing hands thoroughly and regularly, use hand sanitiser)
What about work, school, food etc?
– Wherever possible, arrange to work from home. Keep the lines of communication open with your workplace.
– If possible, arrange for the school to send homework or assignments to you via email or other technology so you can keep up with your studies. All school bodies have been advised of the isolation requirements.
– Organise for food deliveries via online ordering, family and friends. Just remember to limit your contact with people delivering food to you.
– Keep in touch with your loved ones via phone or online. Your mental and emotional health could take a hit if you need to be isolated from your usual lifestyle and social life.
– Find a new hobby! Start a huge jigsaw, do a spring clean of your home, organise your tax or finances. Keep busy and the time should fly by.
– If you start feeling ill, get in contact with your doctor or hospital immediately.
