Local Coronavirus Update

THERE are currently no confirmed cases of coronavirus in the Upper Hunter Shire area.

There are people in the local community who are in home confinement due to returning from overseas.

On Friday the federal government made a recommendation that events of 500 people or more be cancelled (read:Local Events Being Assessed for Coronavirus Risk), but over the weekend said the ban would be supported by legislation. 

Coles and Woolworths have told the media they will be implementing specific shopping times for the elderly, to ensure they can get access to products they need. The local stores are yet to be advised of this, but we will publish the details here when it is implemented in Scone. PLEASE think of sharing stocks with everyone in our community when you shop. 

UPDATE: Woolworths Scone have confirmed they will open their doors to seniors between 7am and 8am each morning beginning tomorrow. Read more: Senior Shoppers Prioritised.

All updates on stories on local information on the coronavirus pandemic can be found here: Local Coronavirus Response

If you suspect you may have the coronavirus, from being in contact with a known case or having travelled to high risk areas:

• Phone the healthdirect hotline for initial advice: 1800 022 222
• Do NOT present at the hospital, medical practice or pharmacy, without first phoning for advice:
  • Scott Memorial Hospital: 02 6540 2100
  • Scone Medical Practice: 02 6545 1600
• Testing is conducted at the Scott Memorial Hospital, please phone prior to going to the hospital, to arrange for testing.
• If you need a doctor’s appointment, in the first instance please phone the Scone Medical Practice for advice over the phone. They are also able to do Skype and What’s App appointments where patients have the facilities and can arrange further care if required.
• Do not go to the local pharmacy if you have any cold or flu symptoms – an infected person visiting the pharmacy may force it into quarantine for two weeks and cause considerable issues for the broader community.