Anyone heading to the South East Regional Hospital is now being asked if they have visited Melbourne in recent days, on top of the existing COVID-19 screening.
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With COVID-19 numbers spiking again throughout parts of Melbourne, the Southern NSW Local Health District said it was taking proactive steps to minimise the risk to patients and staff, while keeping any disruption to services to a minimum.
"A major focus during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been the safety of our patients, staff and the community. As a Health District, we are committed to ensuring we take all reasonable and practical steps to ensure this remains paramount in everything we do," a SNSWLHD spokesperson said.
"All visitors and staff attending the District's facilities are asked a series of questions during temperature checking and screening. From today, they will also be asked Have you travelled to Melbourne in the last 14 days?"
If the answer is "yes", they will be automatically assessed for symptoms and will not be permitted to enter the facility until 14 days from the date they returned from Melbourne.
They will also be advised to get tested for COVID-19 should even the mildest of symptoms arise.
NSW Health recommends anyone with any mild respiratory symptoms or unexplained fever should be tested for COVID-19.
COVID-19 symptoms include: fever; runny nose; cough; headache; aches and pains, tiredness (fatigue);sore throat; or shortness of breath.
SNSWLHD has established COVID-19 testing centres and temporary pop-up clinics throughout the district, so those with symptoms may be tested and treated quickly. Click here for locations and opening times.
Anyone heading to an assessment centre must call 1800 999 880 (option 1) before attending.
