Coronavirus (COVID-19)

What is COVID-19?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory infections. These can range from the common cold to more serious diseases.

COVID-19 is the disease caused by a new coronavirus. It was first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan City in China.

For the most up to date information on Coronavirus in Victoria, visit https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

How is Coronavirus spread?

COVID-19 spreads through close contact with an infected person; mostly face-to-face or within a household.

What is a close contact?

Close contact means greater than 15 minutes face-to-face or the sharing of a closed space for more than two hours with a confirmed case.

A close contact could include any person meeting any of the following criteria:

living in the same household or household-like setting (for example, a boarding school or hostel)
direct contact with the body fluids or laboratory specimens of a confirmed case
a person who spent two hours or longer in the same room
face-to-face contact for more than 15 minutes with the case in any other setting not listed above.

Symptoms

The most common coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms reported are:

Fever
Breathing difficulties, breathlessness
Cough
Sore throat
Fatigue or tiredness.

Many people who contract coronavirus (COVID–19) will suffer only mild symptoms. Elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions may experience more severe symptoms.

If you suspect you may have coronavirus please call the dedicated hotline on 1800 675 398.

Respiratory Emergency Department

Our Emergency Department has been working hard to ensure the safety of both patients and staff in our hospital amid the outbreak of COVID-19. A dedicated Respiratory Emergency Department has been established to separate patients from general emergency presentations. When you come to our Emergency Department you will also first see a concierge nurse who will direct you where you need to be treated.

Protecting yourself and your family

Wash hands often with soap and running water, for at least 20 seconds. Dry with paper towel or hand dryer.
Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.
Stay at home.
Phone your doctor or the hotline – 1800 675 398 – if you need medical attention. They will tell you what to do.
Continue healthy habits: exercise, drink water, get plenty of sleep.
Wearing a face mask is not necessary if you are well.
Buy an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with over 60 per cent alcohol.
Click here to download a poster