Medical centres in Port Macquarie are urging residents to take precautions to prevent the potential spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
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According to NSW Health, as of March 8, there are 40 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in NSW.
A NSW Health spokesperson said there are no confirmed cases of the virus in Port Macquarie.
Medical centres in Port Macquarie, including Port Macquarie Medical Centre have issued a statement to outline patients should call reception before visiting a doctor, or booking an appointment if they have returned from a country identified as a COVID-19 risk in the 14 days before getting sick.
People should also follow the precaution, if they have had close contact with someone suspected of having the coronavirus.
Residents should also call reception, before visiting a centre or booking an appointment if they have any symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat and shortness of breath.
Meanwhile some organisations, including St Agnes Parish have outlined the school might have to take action, which might include closing some services.
"We would like to reassure our families, residents, clients, volunteers and Parishioners that should such an event occur we will be well prepared," a letter from the Parish outlined.
"Actions might include aged care services in "lock down", closure of early education centres, primary and secondary schools, assessment and detailed preparation under the direction of our Critical Incident Management Team."
The Bishop of Lismore for Mass has mandated precautionary steps to prevent the spread of the virus, which include:
- No sign-of-peace until further notice
- All communion will be given on the hand, not on the tongue until further notice
- The Chalice will not be shared with the congregation
- Should members of the Parish feel unwell, they are relieved from the obligation of attending Sunday Mass. Sick people should not attend Mass.
- Special ministers of the Eucharaist should sanitise their hands with sanitising gel before distribution.
- Holy Water will not be used at the entrances of churches.
How can the virus be prevented?
- Clean your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, or an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or a flexed elbow
- Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
- Practice cough etiquette (keep away from other people, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and clean your hands.
- Travellers to Asia should not visit live bird and animal markets, including 'wet' markets.
For more information, people can visit the NSW Health website.