Lifeline 13 11 14

 Coronaviruses is a group of virus' which can make humans and animals sick. Some coronaviruses can cause illness similar to the common cold / flu and others can cause more serious diseases and possibly even death to people with underlying health issues.

 The coronavirus is most likely to spread from person-to-person through direct contact with a person while they are infectious.  Close contact with a person with a confirmed infection who coughs or sneezes, or touching objects or surfaces (such as door handles or tables) contaminated from a cough or sneeze from a person with a confirmed infection, and then touching your mouth or face. 

You must self- isolate if you have returned from overseas or interstate, or if you show cold/flu-like symptoms.  

People who must isolate need to stay at home. Visitors are not allowed into the home or will also require to be quarantined. Need to get neighbours, friends or family who are not required to be isolated to get food or other necessities for you. 

 Some people who are infected may not get sick at all, some will get mild symptoms from which they will recover easily and others may become very ill.

 The people at most risk of serious infection are:

•people with compromised immune systems (e.g. cancer)

•The elderly people (+65 years old)

•People with cardiovascular & respiratory problems 

•People with diagnosed chronic medical conditions

•Very young children and babies

•People in group residential settings

 There is no specific treatment for coronaviruses. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses in general.

Treating it like the flu is probably the best treatment available; rest, liquids and panadol to manage the symptoms.

 For the latest advice, information and resources, go to www.health.gov.au Call the National Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you require translating or interpreting services, call 131 450.