Central Coast coronavirus: Health authorities say they are prepared for a second wave
With zero active cases of COVID-19 on the coast, there has been talk about a second wave. The Central Coast Local Health District chief executive says they are prepared and urged the community to stay vigilant.
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If a second wave of COVID-19 sweeps across the coast, our healthcare facilities and services are prepared.
The Central Coast now has zero live cases of the virus, with all 117 cases given the all clear.
However, Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) chief executive Dr Andrew Montague said while the news is positive we must continue to adhere to the ongoing health advice.
“It’s great that the last person that tested positive is all fine and clear,” he said.
“But we really need to retain that vigilance in the community.
“We are well planned if we get a wave of more cases.”
While more than 16,100 tests have been carried out across the region, Dr Montague said the number of people getting tested had dropped over the past week.
“We need testing to be the first and foremost in peoples’ minds,” he said.
“Everyone should err on the side of caution. If you have symptoms make sure you get tested … if you have a cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache or temperature.
“This also includes non-specific things such as lethargy and muscle aches and pains.”
Central Coast Parliamentary Secretary Adam Crouch has echoed this message, revealing that during the week of May 4-10 1459 people were tested by CCLHD, while the week after it dropped to 1194.
“With restrictions gradually being eased, we need everyone with even the mildest symptoms to come forward for testing,” he said.
“Even if you take a COVID-19 test but then redevelop symptoms, you will need to be tested again.”
With restrictions easing and visitors welcome to the coast from June 1, Dr Montague said people need to continue physical distancing measures.
“The term has been changed from social distancing as we still want people to remain connected whether it’s over the phone or through any of the apps available,” he said.
“Mental health is going to be a big issue going forward.”
He said the past 10 weeks, along with an unknown future, had been a stressful time for CCLHD staff.
“Everyone has bad days here and there,” he said.
“On the whole, everyone has been really supportive of each other and constantly checking in to see how people are going.”
Dr Montague said the local health district had wellbeing programs in place, including some which had been fast-tracked during the pandemic.
“On top of those, we have been getting people to do things together such as a group doing TikTok videos. Things like that really improve morale."
He reiterated the ongoing health advice which has remained constant since the start of the pandemic – physical distance, wash hands with soap, cough into your elbow and if you are unwell, stay home.