Stay COVID Safe this long weekend

1 October 2020
green background with the words COVID-19

Ahead of the October long weekend and as the weather warms up, Illawarra Shoalhaven residents are reminded to be COVID safe while enjoying the break.

Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) Director Public Health, Curtis Gregory urged everyone to remain vigilant to the ever-present threat of new cases of COVID-19.

“Thankfully NSW and the Illawarra Shoalhaven have had minimal COVID cases in recent weeks and more restrictions have been relaxed.  While that’s a great position to be in, we can’t be complacent,” Mr Gregory said.

“No matter what you are doing these holidays, whether you are travelling, watching the local footy finals or staying at home, please remember the simple measures to help prevent the spread the of COVID-19.

“Maintain your COVID-19 vigilance with things like physical distancing, hand hygiene and wearing masks when you can’t physically distance.’’

Mr Gregory also encouraged people to get tested early if they had any COVID-19 symptoms.

“Testing numbers have declined in recent weeks and we are appealing to the community to come forward for testing right away if you have a runny nose or scratchy throat, cough, fever or other symptoms that could be COVID-19,’’ he said.

“If people don’t come forward and get tested, we can’t keep the pandemic at bay.”

“With extra visitors coming to our region, and more of us catching up with friends and getting out and about, it is more important than ever to get a COVID test.”

We are encouraging all residents and visitors to:

  • If you are unwell, get tested and isolate right away – don’t delay.
  • Wash your hands regularly. Take hand sanitiser with you when you go out.
  • Keep your distance. Leave 1.5 metres between yourself and others.
  • Wear a mask on public transport, ride share, taxis, shopping, places of worship and other places where you can’t physically distance.

A list of COVID-19 testing clinics can be found here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/how-to-protect-yourself-and-others/clinics or call your GP.