Tips to stay healthy

Social distancing, self-isolation, personal hygiene and flu vaccination offer the best protection for community members against the coronavirus (COVID-19), a South Western Sydney Local Health District spokesperson said.

“We are encouraging everyone to take precautions to help to protect themselves and their loved ones,’’ a South Western Sydney Local Health District spokesperson said.

“If we all follow social distancing, practise good hygiene, comply to self-isolation (self-quarantine) and have the flu vaccination, we will help stop the spread of COVID-19.’’

The spokesperson said social distancing meant less contact between people and included avoiding shaking hands, hugging and kissing.

“If you are sick, stay away from others - that is the most important thing you can do - and avoid contact with people who are unwell with coughs, colds or flu-like symptoms,’’ the spokesperson said.

“You should also stay 1.5m from other people and 4m in an enclosed space and avoid visiting vulnerable people, such as the elderly or people with compromised immune systems.’’

The spokesperson said practising good hygiene included washing your hands frequently.

“People should be washing their hands for 20 seconds with soap and water, before and after eating, and after going to the toilet, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser,’’ the spokesperson said.

“Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or tissue and dispose of tissues properly.

“We also advise everyone to clean and disinfect surfaces and sanitise frequently used objects such as mobiles, keys and wallets.’’

The spokesperson said this year’s flu vaccine was expected to be available from mid-April.

“We are urging everyone who can be vaccinated to do so. While the flu vaccine won’t combat COVID-19, it will help to reduce the severity and spread of the flu which can lower a person’s immunity and make them susceptible to other illnesses,’’ the spokesperson said.

Self-isolation applies if you have COVID-19, have been in close contact with a confirmed case or arrived in Australia after midnight on 15 March 2020. Self-isolation lasts for 14 days.

“We encourage you to take every precaution to protect yourself, your family and community,’’ the spokesperson said.

For more information and to keep up to date on the coronavirus visit www.health.nsw.gov.au.

NSW Ministry of Health |   SWSLHD on YouTube   SWSLHD on Facebook   SWSLHD on Twitter
Disclaimer | Privacy Statement | Accessibility | Sitemap
© 2018 South Western Sydney Local Health District
Page last updated: 24 April, 2020