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March 12, 2020

How to Protect Yourself Against the COVID-19 Coronavirus

With the recent spike in Coronavirus cases in Australia, it’s important to know the protective measures you can put in place to reduce your risk of contracting the disease. Whilst the case numbers are small, being aware of how to protect yourself can do no harm. The World Health Organization has shared the following advice for taking care of your health:

  • Wash your hands frequently – regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
  • Maintain social distancing – maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
  • Practice respiratory hygiene – make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
  • If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early – stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.
  • Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider – stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. Follow advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

By following these simple steps, you can help protect yourself and your family against the novel coronavirus. You can keep up-to-date on the latest updates released by the federal government by visiting the health.gov.au update page. Remember that your local pharmacy may also have hand sanitizer or soap available. If you do visit your pharmacy, be sure to take any unwanted or expired medicines out of the packaging and return them as part of the Return of Unwanted Medicines project. 

The Return of Unwanted Medicines Project is a free service that offers a way to dispose of unwanted or expired medicines safely and conveniently at your local community pharmacy. Find out more about the service here.

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