A number of COVID-19 measures have now been re-introduced in Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District facilities, including restrictions on hospital visitors.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
On Friday, Margot Mains, chief executive of Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District said given the current evolving COVID-19 situation on the Northern Beaches, and in line with a state directive, all ISLHD facilities have increased alert level from green (low) to amber (moderate) risk, effective immediately.
Visiting sessions will remain same (11am-1pm) and (5pm-7pm). However, numbers are restricted to one person per session per day in general wards.
Amber alert also means:
*All visitors entering a health facility are required to wear a mask. This advice applies to hospital and community health settings.
*All health workers are required to wear a surgical mask if they are within 1.5m of patients.
*Patients already in hospital are required to wear a mask, where possible.
"I urge our community to increase vigilance, be meticulous in your approach to physical distancing, hygiene and all other measures outlined by NSW Health including wearing masks on public transport and in areas where physical distancing cannot be maintained," Ms Mains said.
"Testing is also absolutely critical to enable us to get on top of this spread.
"Please remember that if you or those close to you are feeling even mildly unwell, please get tested.
"Early testing is crucial to getting on top of any outbreak, so please play your part.
"While there has not been a locally-transmitted case of COVID-19 in the Illawarra since June, the Northern Beaches situation highlights that COVID-19 is still present and we must remain vigilant."
Anyone requiring a test can attend one of the District's assessment clinics, with locations at Wollongong, Shoalhaven and Milton Ulladulla hospitals as well as a new Shellharbour location.
The Shellharbour COVID-19 Assessment Clinic is relocating from Shellharbour Hospital to the new site in the Shellharbour City Centre on Monday, December 21.
People attending assessment clinics are asked to wear a mask.
The community is encouraged to always check the ISLHD website for up-to-date locations and opening times. Click here.
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.
