Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Patient Information

We are all concerned with the welfare of our patients, so we have prepared a quick reference guide for you.

Firstly. there is a set Criteria -Clinical and Epidemiological - you would need to meet both to be classified as a suspect case.

If you meet this criterion, there has been Screening Clinics established at five Hospitals

You will need to call ahead before attending the emergency department, so staff can prepare for your arrival Mention any symptoms, recent travel details, who you have contacted, or any other relevant information

Austin Hospital – 03 9496 5000 – 03 9895 3281 Monash Clayton – 03 9594 6666 Northern Hospital – 03 TBA The Alfred Hospital - 03 9076 2000 The – 03 9342 7000 Western Hospital Sunshine – 03 TBA

Please remember that this is ONLY if you MEET the following criteria

A. If the patient satisfies both clinical and epidemiological criteria, they are classified as a suspected case: Clinical criteria: Fever OR Acute respiratory (for example, shortness of breath or cough) with or without fever AND Epidemiological criteria: International Travel in the 14 days before onset of illness OR Close* or casual** contact in the 14 days before illness onset with a confirmed case of COVID- 19.

B. If the patient has severe community-acquired pneumonia (critically ill) and no other cause is identified, with or without recent international travel, they are classified as a suspect case.

C. If the patient has bilateral moderate or severe community-acquired pneumonia (hospitalised) and is a healthcare worker, with or without international travel, they are classified as a suspect case. *Close contact means at least 15 minutes face-to-face contact or the sharing of a closed space for more than two hours with a confirmed case. **Casual contact is a person having any face-to-face contact or sharing of a closed space with a confirmed case for less than two hours. ______

Should you have any other queries

There is a Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080

Call this line if you are seeking information on novel coronavirus. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

There is also a department of health website you can visit https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/victorian-public-coronavirus-disease-covid-19

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Some helpful tips to Remember 1. If you sneeze – lean forward and sneeze into your elbow 2. When blowing your nose – wipe and drop – tissues are single use 3. Wash your hands – when washing hands turn tap or and off with paper towel 4. When opening and closing doors use you clothing rather than touching handles 5. Don’t snack without first washing your hands or using hand sanitizer 6. Stay away from ones that are not well if possible 7. If you are unwell – do not mix socially ______