MP urges community to keep it real

18th Mar 2020

NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has today moved to reassure the community that
every measure is in place at the region's hospitals to deal with an outbreak of
Coronavirus, should it occur.

Mr Marshall said that so far there had been NO confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the
Northern Tablelands electorate.

"Today I met with hospital managers and health officials from across our region who
have assured me all the resources and protocols are in place to test patients and
treat those who may test positive to Coronavirus," Mr Marshall said.

"I am confident our local health services are equipped to deal with whatever this
pandemic throws at us. Our hospitals are appropriately staffed with qualified
medical practitioners and are equipped with ventilators and the facilities required
to isolate and treat someone with the illness.

"Already hundreds of tests have been undertaken, both at hospital emergency
departments and at private pathology labs and thankfully our region is yet to see a
single case.

"If you feel unwell and are exhibiting symptoms of Coronavirus, fever, cough, runny
nose or shortness of breath you are able to present to your local hospital's
Emergency Department or visit a General Practitioner for testing - but must phone
ahead first.

"I know many people are worried about the impact Coronovirus could have on their
health and the health of their families, friends and communities.

"We need to support each other as best we can, follow all the health advice and
we'll pull through."

Mr Marshall also urged the community to remain calm and adhere to personal hygiene
and social distancing measures to help limit the spread of Coronavirus.

"Now is the time to be calm, rational and think of others," he said.

"Please stop panic buying at local grocery stores. All that is doing is placing
added pressure on vulnerable people in our community. Australia will not run out of
food, so please just buy enough items to get you through a week or two maximum.

"Also it's important at this time we all take our personal hygiene seriously by
coughing and sneezing into our elbows, washing hands regularly, cleaning surfaces
thoroughly and keeping a gap of 1.5 metres between and the closest person.

"Rest assured as a community we are prepared and the best thing we can now do is
look out for each other over the coming weeks and months."

For the latest information on the COVID-19 health alert visit
www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert<http://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert>

Individuals with concerns can also contact HealthDirect on 1800 022 222, the Federal
Government Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080, their GP, or their
Public Health Unit by calling 1300 066 055.