COVID-19 update

Epworth is closely monitoring developments regarding novel coronavirus (COVID-19), to effectively plan and implement decisive actions to ensure our patients, visitors, staff and doctors remain safe.

Epworth stands ready to assist the community, working closely with the Department of Health and Human Services and Safer Care Victoria. We are in regular contact with these organisations, responding to requests for information and providing advice to assist with planning.

Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Breathing difficulties or wheezing
• Headache
• Any other signs or symptoms of respiratory infection

Those at greater risk of contracting this virus include:

• Those with compromised immune systems, for example oncology patients and the chronically ill
• The elderly
• Those with underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease
• Those you have travelled overseas in the last 14 days

General information

COVID-19 has the following features:

• Highly contagious
• Spread via droplet: sneeze, cough, directly and via contaminated surfaces
• Most susceptible are the elderly and or those with chronic medical conditions
• You may be contagious before symptoms show
• Lasts for one to two weeks or longer
• Causes respiratory infection and may lead to pneumonia

How you can protect yourself and your family:

• Hand hygiene is the best defence. Use hand santiser and wash your hands with soap and water.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and sneezing or cough into your elbow. Dispose of the tissue into a bin and then wash your hands afterwards.
• Face masks are not recommended for use by members of the public in Victoria.
• We recommend you reconsider overseas travel. 14 days of self-isolation is mandatory on your return.

If you have travelled overseas, been in contact with someone who has confirmed COVID-19 and/or are experiencing the above symptoms, your first point of contact is your GP. Make sure you call ahead to let them know your concerns or symptoms.

For more information about COVID-19, see the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services website.

Resources

If you suspect you or a family member has COVID-19 you should call (not visit) your GP or call the national hotline on 1800 020 080. Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.

• Epworth Chief Medical Officer, Associate Professor Dr Luis Prado, COVID-19 address (4 March 2020)
• Victorian Department of Health and Human Services
• Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases by Johns Hopkins CSSE