In accordance with Australian Public Health advice, IMMEX asks that any individuals who begin experiencing respiratory symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) and have recently travelled to China or had contact with someone diagnosed with the novel coronavirus within the last 14 days go to the nearest hospital for diagnosis and treatment.
This coordination between providers, hospitals, and public health is critical for our continued effort to best respond to and reduce transmission.
This is a rapidly changing situation both abroad and domestically, and we are still learning. Let’s remember this virus is identified within the past month and there is much we don’t know yet.
Where can I get more information?
Visit the Australian Government Department of Health homepage at www.health.gov.au
Call the Public Health Information Line on 1800 004 599.
Common Symptoms of Coronavirus
The symptoms of most coronaviruses are similar to any other upper-respiratory infection, including runny nose, coughing, sore throat, and sometimes a fever. In most cases, you won’t know whether you have a coronavirus or a different cold-causing virus, such as rhinovirus.
WHO’s standard recommendations for the general public to reduce exposure to and transmission of a range of illnesses are as follows, which include hand and respiratory hygiene, and safe food practices:
- Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water;
- When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands;
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough;
- If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your health care provider;
- When visiting live markets in areas currently experiencing cases of novel coronavirus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals;
- The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods, as per good food safety practices.