Coronavirus: Murrumbidgee Local Health District confirms nine new COVID-19 cases
Health officials have confirmed the number of coronavirus cases in the Riverina has soared from 1 to 10 in three days. Almost 1000 people have been tested so far.
The Wagga News
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Nine more cases of coronavirus have been identified in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District, taking the total to 10.
Of the total cases, two are in Wagga and Federation, four in Albury and one each for Griffith and Cootamundra-Gundagai.
The jump in cases comes after the first was identified on Sunday. So far, 987 people in the district have been tested.
In a statement this morning, the MLHD said: “The cases of COVID-19 located in Albury, Griffith, Federation, Cootamundra-Gundagai and Wagga Wagga LGAs were confirmed yesterday afternoon.
“All cases notified were diagnosed after travelling overseas or being in contact with a confirmed case.
“All patients have experienced mild to moderate symptoms and are in self isolation to ensure they do not transmit the virus.”
The patients are being managed at home with the support of their GP and a daily check up with local health services.
The public health unit interviews the person to determine their movements while they were infectious.
Where individuals are identified as close contacts, the public health unit directs these contacts to self-isolate for 14 days after they were last in contact with the case.
Practising hand hygiene and social distancing remain the most effective ways to reduce transmission of the virus.
The health district recommends people follow NSW Health advice around social distancing and self-isolation to slow the spread of the virus.
Reducing contact between people unless absolutely necessary, especially those who may be more vulnerable or susceptible to the illness because of age or weakened immunity, is critical to slowing the spread and impact of COVID-19.
If you are a returned traveller, or have come in contact with a confirmed case and are showing symptoms — including fever, sore throat, dry cough and shortness of breath — within 14 days, seek medical advice.
- Call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 022 222 and receive advice about the best course of action depending on symptoms and risks.
- Contact your GP to arrange an appointment (let GP practice know in advance if you have symptoms).
- Call the Murrumbidgee COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 831 099 for assessment.
People without symptoms do not need to be tested. The health district has established testing clinics in Wagga and Griffith.
Last week, the NSW Government announced a $2.3 billion health boost and economic stimulus package to help tackle the COVID-19 outbreak.
NSW Health will receive $700 million to assist in doubling ICU capacity, preparing for additional COVID-19 testing, purchasing additional ventilators and medical equipment, establishing acute respiratory clinics and bringing forward elective surgeries to private hospitals.
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