Coronavirus: Westpoint Blacktown ‘sick shopper’ sparks virus fears
A western Sydney shopping centre has confronted rumours about the spread of the virus to Blacktown.
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Management of Westpoint Blacktown shopping centre has confronted fears about the Coronavirus after a shopper reportedly fell ill at the weekend.
Rumours about the incident spread on social media on Sunday, sparking fears the shopper had contracted the virus.
A widely circulated Facebook post claimed the shopping centre had been shut down due to a shopper being treated for the virus near Woolworths after they reportedly collapsed on Saturday afternoon.
“Word out, people who are still inside are kept locked inside Westpoint not allow (sic) to exit,” the post read.
“Keep away from Blacktown and stay indoors!”
However, on Monday night the centre confirmed on Facebook that the rumour was false.
“We can confirm that there have been no incidents of coronavirus reported at Westpoint and the centre is open and operating as usual,” the centre said.
“If you have any further questions, please contact NSW Health on 9391 9000.”
A NSW Health spokesperson said there had been four confirmed cases of the virus in the state, with one patient still in hospital.
Three patients – 53-year-old male, a 35-year-old male and a 21-year-old female have now been discharged from hospital.
“NSW Health has been made aware of social media posts being widely circulated warning people to not consume certain foods or visit certain locations in Sydney,” the spokesperson said.
“These posts have not originated from NSW Health nor any entity relating to us.”
The Department of Health said 12 cases of the virus have been confirmed across Australia.
All confirmed cases in NSW were infected with the virus while in China.
HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST CORONAVIRUS
NSW Health says the best way to protect yourself is the same as you would against any respiratory infection. Practice good hygiene by:
– Making sure to clean your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.
– Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or a flexed elbow.
– Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
– Make sure you stay home if you are sick.