coronavirus, bega, covid-19, covid, corona, coronavirus, SERH, hospital, nsw health

Southern NSW Local Health District has confirmed six cases of COVID19 have been formally identified within the district, as at March, 22. The announcement follows recent tests which were verified on the weekend. The confirmed cases include: A Canberra man in his 60s who was recently overseas, then on his return showed signs of a sore throat, cough and flu like symptoms. The man is in self-isolation in Goulburn. A Queanbeyan woman in her 60s who was recently interstate, and is now in self-isolation. A Bungendore resident who tested positive after returning from a recent cruise, and has undertaken self-isolation. A Longbeach local who returned to Batemans Bay following a recent cruise and has undertaken self-isolation. A Tura Beach resident, who is now in self-isolation after testing positive on return from travelling overseas. A woman from Merimbula who contracted the virus after attending a wedding interstate who is now in self-isolation. Southern NSW Local Health District Public Health Unit is in contact with each confirmed case and their close contacts, advising them to self-isolate for 14 days from when they were last with the confirmed case. They have also been advised to seek medical attention should they experience symptoms. Identifying close contacts ensures that those people who may be at risk take the necessary steps to avoid any further transmission. READ MORE: It is essential that everyone plays a part in containing the spread of COVID-19 by practising good hygiene measures including: Clean your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, 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. Stay home if you are sick. Southern NSW Local Health District has established COVID-19 Assessment Centres throughout the district, so those with symptoms may be tested and treated quickly. The purpose of these clinics is for people who have respiratory symptoms or fever and who are at risk of COVID-19, for example because they were in contact with a COVID-19 case, or have returned from overseas in the 14 days before onset of symptoms. Any one heading to an assessment centre MUST call the SNSWLHD Central Intake Service - 1800 999 880 (option 1) before attending. You will ONLY be tested if you fit the COVID-19 testing criteria. This testing can take up to two days to complete and report back. For the latest, up to date information head to: www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/diseases/Pages/coronavirus.aspx We have removed our paywall from our stories about the coronavirus. This is a rapidly changing situation and we to make sure our readers are as informed as possible. If you would like to support our journalists you can subscribe here .

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