Stay COVID-19 Safe This Long Weekend

WITH the long weekend set to see local tourism gaining momentum, Hunter New England Health caution residents to ensure COVID-19 does not gain a local foothold.

Dr David Durrheim, public health physician with Hunter New England Health said while it’s exciting to travel this weekend, the virus is still lurking and the relaxation of restrictions will test if the virus will spread.

“The reality is that there is no vaccine available for COVID-19 yet so we still have to embrace our new normal of standing back, washing our hands very regularly, covering coughs and sneezes, and getting tested if symptomatic,” he said.

“We can’t be in too much of a rush to return to pre-COVID life,” he said.

“We’re not there yet,” he said. 

“That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy our long weekend travels, but with the number of people expected to take advantage of the relaxed travel restrictions, especially those from outside of our Region, it could be more difficult to remember these good habits.

“The last thing we want is to go backwards just when things are starting to look good,” Dr Durrheim said. 

Anyone with even the mildest cold or flu-symptoms should contact their general practitioner or visit the local hospital for testing.

Local Testing

To test for COVID-19 please make an appointment with the:

• Scott Memorial Hospital in Scone: 02 6540 2100 or,
• Muswellbrook Hospital: 02 6540 2000.

Please note both clinics will be closed on Monday, June 8.