COVID-19: Four Steps to Stay Safe

By Sue Abbott

WATCHING the happenings down south and wondering if the second wave of COVID-19 is going to come on up to the Upper Hunter is understandably making us feel a little anxious.

I think we are all really starting to appreciate that this virus is going to be part of our lives for quite a little while longer.

So right now, whilst there is no vaccine yet, nor a treatment, it is good for us to remember that there are four steps we can all take that will keep us and our community safe.

1. Stay at home if you are sick or not feeling well – only leave for essential medical care and testing or other essential errands
2. Keep your physical distance – stay at least 1.5 metres away from other people
3. Wear a face mask – you can be contagious without symptoms so protect those around you by wearing a face covering
4. Keep your hands clean – wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available

If you are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 you should still stay at home as much as possible.

New South Wales Health and the Australian Government have said that those at increased risk are adults 70 years of age or older and those who have other health conditions.

If you are worried, get tested: there is a COVID-19 clinic at the Scone Hospital and it is open for testing between the hours of 1:30pm – 3:30pm Monday to Friday.

Call ahead first to let them know you are coming on 02 6540 2100.

The SMP Pandemic Communications Group is putting out a flyer over the next days via a letterbox drop and all the information in this post will be in the flyer.

There will also be some available for pick-up at the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre, should the rain get to your flyer before you do.

In a nutshell, the four steps listed above will minimise the potential for community transmission  and if we can minimise community transmission, we will save lives.

We can do this…and together we’ve definitely got this!

Sue Abbott is a ratepayer and resident of Scone, as well as a councillor for the Upper Hunter Shire Council. This post is written in her personal capacity and does not represent the views of organisations she is, or has previously been, affiliated with.

If you would like to help distribute flyers, please contact Sue Abbott on 0418 237 021.