Small steps towards recovery: how to contribute
Tasmanians have been working hard to look after one another and the benefits are clear. There has been a recent significant decline in new cases of coronavirus and as a community, each day that we work together brings us closer to recovery.
There is still a way to go and Tasmanians will need to continue to be vigilant. Although the current restrictions came into effect fairly quickly, the road to recovery will likely be a slower, more cautious journey. At this crossroads, many of us might be wondering what we can do to help? Luckily there are some simple things that all Tasmanians can do that will make a significant difference to the speed of our recovery.
To protect yourself and others:
- Get tested for coronavirus if you have any cold or flu-like symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose, or fever. Tasmania’s testing criteria includes any person who has these symptoms regardless of whether you have recently travelled or been in the north west of the state. If you have any doubts, get tested.
To organise a test contact your GP or call the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738.
- Remain aware of your physical distance. Physical distancing is one of the best tools we have to fight coronavirus. By keeping a minimum of 1.5 metres from others for the foreseeable future you can limit any spread of illness, protect yourself and protect your community.
- Get used to washing your hands and taking hygiene precautions for the long term. Like physical distancing between people, hand washing and good hygiene practices will be a mainstay in keeping the community safe. Use soap and warm water and wash your hands thoroughly before you leave home, when you arrive somewhere, before preparing or eating food and when using the bathroom. If you have to leave home and have hand sanitiser available to you, take it with you and use it regularly. Clean hands really do save lives.
- Book in for a flu jab and remind your family and friends to do the same. We are heading into the winter flu season and it is important we are at our most healthy and have a well-protected community. Avoiding the flu will keep you in top health and can help reduce the need to see your GP or visit a hospital. This will help look after our healthcare system and health workers.
- Keep in touch with family, friends and your community. Many people are facing significant challenges due to coronavirus – unfortunately many people will be dealing with loneliness, job loss, worries about themselves or their loved ones and a feeling of disconnection. Stay in regular contact with people and ask them how they are doing. If you are able to offer assistance, please do – it might be dropping of groceries or providing a friendly voice on the phone. Video chats and phone calls can be all the more meaningful at times like these. If you or someone you know needs assistance don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact Beyond Blue on: 1300 22 4636.