What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It’s caused by a type of coronavirus.
Outbreaks have occurred overseas, and we are conscious about preventing the spread in our community.
If you have the following travel or contact history or any of the symptoms outlined below,
- recent return from Countries and regions of concern or as published by the Ministry of Health (in the past 14 days) or
- close contact with someone who has recently returned from one of the above countries (in the past 14 days) or
- close contact with someone who is a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 or
- experiencing symptoms of respiratory infection such as raised temperature, a sore throat, a cough, experiencing chest discomfort or difficulties with breathing (regardless of travel history).
Please call and ask to speak to the preadmission nurse; 07 957 3959 extn 2
Following further assessment, your planned surgery may be postponed, and another date provided.
I am due to visit Anglesea Hospital but have recently travelled to one of the countries on the travel restricted list. What should I do?
Please call and ask to speak to the preadmission nurse: 07 957 3959 extn 2
There are simple steps you can take to protect you and your family/whanau.
If you have recently travelled please read the following:
Symptoms The symptoms of COVID-19 are:
- a cough
- a high temperature (at least 38°C)
- shortness of breath.
These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have COVID-19. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.
How it spreads COVID-19, like the flu, can be spread from person to person. When a person who has COVID-19 coughs, sneezes or talks, they may spread droplets containing the virus a short distance, which quickly settle on surrounding surfaces.
You may get infected by the virus if you touch those surfaces or objects and then touch your mouth, nose or eyes.
That’s why it’s really important to use good hygiene, regularly wash and thoroughly dry your hands, and use good cough etiquette.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or by covering your mouth and nose with tissues.
- Put used tissues in the bin or a bag immediately.
- Wash your hands with soap and water often (for at least 20 seconds).
- Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean.
- Avoid personal contact, such as kissing, sharing cups or food with sick people.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs.
- Stay home if you feel unwell.
- Call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 if you have any symptoms and have been to any countries or territories of concern or have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19.
