Coronavirus Update
What is the virus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some coronaviruses cause illness in humans, and others cause illness in animals.
COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that has not previously been identified in humans. It first started in Hubei Province, China before spreading to other countries.
What are the risks
Coronavirus is spread by sneezing and coughing. The virus does not survive very long on surfaces and is killed by common household disinfectants. Their spread can be controlled by adopting thorough health hygiene approaches.
What should I know?
As the virus is spread by people with symptoms through coughing and sneezing, the best way to protect others is to practice good personal hygiene.
Experience tells us that people with compromised immune systems, the very old and young and those with diagnosed heart and lung conditions are most at risk of developing complications if they contract an infection like this.
Tips: Hygiene practices
The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 and other respiratory infections is to practice good hygiene by:
- Do clean your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub
- Do dry your hands with a disposable towel
- Do cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing with a tissue or face into your flexed elbow
- Do avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
- Do go to the doctor if you feel seek
- Do not touch your mouth, nose or eyes if you have not washed your hands.
Travel restrictions and reporting
The Australian Government (through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade) is advising individuals to reconsider travel to China, Japan, South Korea, Iran, Mongolia and Italy. Also, individuals are encouraged to reconsider taking an overseas cruise at this time.
Anyone traveling to these countries will be required to follow requirements mandated by the Australian Government. This means they will be expected to be isolated for 14 days after returning to Australia. If you have recently travelled overseas and are exhibiting flu-like symptoms, then you must remain at home for 14 days.
CareChoice staff must report all overseas travel to us at [email protected].
What is CareChoice is doing?
CareChoice wants to proactively support its staff and clients during this time. All staff and clients who exhibit flu-like symptoms should contact their doctor and report to [email protected]. Staff should isolate themselves for 14-days from the time of reporting or obtain medical clearance to work.
We have established a centralised and coordinated approach to respond and manage any enquires relating to COVID-19 coronaviruses. Any enquiries or questions about how CareChoice is responding to COVID-19 coronaviruses can be directed to: [email protected].
Key information from the Australian Government and other agencies:
- CareChoice is monitoring updates from Australian Government and the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services. We will provide staff and clients with regular updates.
- We ask individuals to take precautions when visiting Toorak and Kew because there have been recent confirmed cases in these areas. Additionally, anyone who attended the House of Delight restaurant in Glen Waverley between 1730 and 1900 on 26 January 2020, or who was on Tiger Airways flight TT566 from Melbourne to Gold Coast on 27 January 2020 should contact the department on 1300 651 160.
Further information and health advice
For the latest updates go to: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/novelcoronavirus
If you think you may have novel coronavirus, please call the dedicated hotline 1800 675 389 which is serviced by Nurse-on-Call. Only call (000) in an emergency.
