Teenagers have a big role to play in keeping the footprint of COVID-19 small, doctors say.
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If young people can keep their distance from others, they can help slow the spread of the deadly virus to vulnerable older and unwell people.
Southern NSW Local Health District hopes a graphic illustration will cut through and encourage everyone to keep at least 1.5 metres apart.
Dr Anthony Stevenson, GP anaesthetist at Queanbeyan Hospital and Chair of the Medical Staff Executive Council for the District, says when social distancing is combined with good personal hygiene measures the spread of a pandemic can be slowed.
"It seems the message just isn't getting through to our teenagers, who don't realise their actions will put lives at risk," Dr Stevenson said.
"Keeping at least 1.5 metres away from each other, helps protect the most vulnerable members of the community and reduces the impact of the pandemic on essential, life-saving health services.
"There are many actions individuals, employers and organisations can take now to promote social distancing and help reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection in our community:
- Stay at home unless absolutely necessary
- Cloud not crowd - stay connected with family, friends and work colleagues through phone, email and social media.
- Stop shaking hands, hugging or kissing as a greeting.
- Encourage flexible work/learning arrangements and encourage staff to stay home if possible.
- Maintain a high standard of regular cleaning.
- Insist on frequent washing of hands and use of hand sanitisers.
"We can all play a part in slowing the spread of the virus by 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," Dr Stevenson said.
Anyone who has respiratory symptoms or fever, or show signs of flu like symptoms, and who are at risk of COVID-19, for example because they were in contact with a COVID-19 case, or have returned from overseas in the 14 days before onset of symptoms, should:
- call the SNSWLHD Central Intake Service 1800 999 880 (option 1), where people will be triaged and if testing is warranted, will be directed to an assessment centre based on location
- Make an appointment with your GP and warn them if you have symptoms.
Visit www.health.nsw.gov.au search infectious diseases for more.
