With the holiday season almost here, COORDINARE has joined with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District and Southern NSW Local Health District to encourage people to be prepared this summer period.

COORDINARE's CEO Dianne Kitcher said: "As we are currently experiencing another wave of COVID cases, now is the time to check that your COVID vaccinations are up-to-date and confirm if you would be eligible for antivirals, to save valuable time if you do test positive for COVID-19. To avoid a COVID infection, mask wearing, physical distancing and considering whether to attend crowded events are precautions worth undertaking at this time."

"If you’re at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and are eligible for antivirals, speak to your doctor or nurse practitioner before the holiday season about how you would access these medicines. You would need a prescription to get the tablets or capsules from your nearest pharmacy
within the first five days of symptoms," said Ms Kitcher.

"Getting prepared before the holiday season could be as simple as checking you have enough medication or medical supplies available, or you have adequate repeat prescription to cover the holidays and normal business closures, especially if you test positive for COVID and need to stay
home."

“Although it currently isn't mandatory to self-isolate, if you’ve tested positive to COVID-19, it’s recommended you stay home until acute symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever) have gone. Make sure you have supplies such as first aid kit and a health action plan with a list of important health phone numbers handy, this could help you save time and avoid unnecessary stress if you do have an urgent health need,” she said.

Ms Kitcher said if you or someone you know is unwell over the holidays, ask yourself: ‘Is my urgency an emergency?’ There are plenty of health care options for unexpected medical issues like sunburn, minor cuts or toothaches which don’t involve a trip to the hospital emergency department.

• Contact your nearest general practice (details at healthdirect.gov.au) or Radio Doctor Illawarra on 4228 5522 (Scarborough to Shell Cove).
• Call the healthdirect hotline to speak to a registered nurse on 1800 022 222.
• Visit a nearby pharmacist.
• Call 000 in a medical emergency.
• Attend the nearest emergency department for a serious illness or injury.

You can read more here!

Community, Illawarra Shoalhaven, Media release, Southern NSW,