Published on Thursday, 19 March 2020 at 3:03:32 PM
During this evolving situation with coronavirus (COVID-19) we are obviously in uncharted waters and the situation is continuing to change very rapidly.
I would like to reassure our community about what the Shire of Denmark is doing to support you.
The health and safety of our people is our priority and we are doing everything we can to stay up to date on this rapidly changing situation and keep you informed.
We are closely following the daily advice from the Department of Health and other Federal and State Government agencies that are leading Australia’s response to this public health emergency.
We have mobilised a response team which is utilising the latest advice from the Department of Health’s COVID-19 alerts to make important decisions regarding services, facilities and events. We are liaising with community groups to provide support and help ensure the resilience of our local economy. This includes ensuring that local businesses have the supplies that they need.
Denmark prides itself on being a welcoming, caring and compassionate community, so now is the time for us to show our true colours.
We are planning strategies to support the most vulnerable people in our community. I ask the community to look out for one another, as we collectively respond to this unprecedented situation. One way is by checking on neighbours and ensuring they have access to food and staples that they require.
This also means practicing a high level of personal hygiene and re-considering all non-essential travel, contact and activities. This also includes adhering to the State and Federal Governments recommendations on maintaining 1.5m distance from others, where possible.
You can visit the State Government’s HealthyWA website, follow the HealthyWA facebook page or call the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080.
We have a compassionate and resilient community. We will manage and respond to this together, and we will come through this together.
Thank you for playing your part in helping keep our community safe and supporting each other.
How to reduce your risk
Everyone must practice good hygiene to protect against infection and prevent the virus spreading.
Good hygiene includes:
- Covering your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue;
- Disposing of tissues properly;
- Washing your hands often with soap and water, including before and after going to the toilet;
- Using alcohol-based sanitisers;
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces;
- If you are sick, avoiding contact with others and staying more than 1.5 metres away from people;
- Cleaning and sanitising frequently used objects such as mobiles, keys and wallets.
To read more about protective measures against coronavirus, visit the World Health Organisation website at www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
There are also ways you can easily reduce your risk:
- Wash hands often with soap and running water, for at least 20 seconds. Dry with paper towel or hand dryer.
- Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.
- Isolate yourself at home if you feel sick. If you take medication ensure you have adequate supplies.
- Phone your GP first if you need medical attention. They will tell you what to do.
- Continue healthy habits: exercise, drink water, get plenty of sleep, and now is the time to quit smoking. Call the Quitline 137 848.
- Don't wear a face mask if you are well.
- Buy an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with over 60 per cent alcohol.
- Get the flu shot (available April).
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