The township of Daylesford currently has active cases of COVID-19, and all cases are linked.
As we move toward living with COVID-19 in our communities, we will see an increase in cases. This is why it is so important for everyone aged 12+ to get vaccinated as soon as possible. In many situations, new local cases will not be announced publicly, and some new exposure sites will not be listed. This is because the risk of transmission to the community has been managed by the tremendous work of the contact tracing teams. The contact tracers are often able to identify all close contacts of a positive case.
Central Highlands Rural Health will continue working closely with Hepburn Shire Council, Victoria Police and the Grampians Public Health Unit to support anyone with COVID-19 and ensure they understand the need to isolate to stop the spread of this highly contagious virus.
Case numbers are listed on the State Government coronavirus website, but the most essential information to monitor is exposure site listings. The purpose of exposure site listings is to alert the community when they may have been exposed to the virus. We encourage all in our community to remain vigilant and to continue COVID safe practices when out in the community including checking in with QR codes. Using QR codes greatly assists our contact tracing team when investigating cases, allowing them to get on top of cases quicker, and slow the spread of the virus. Anyone who has been to an exposure site at the dates and times listed should come forward for testing, and anyone with even the mildest of symptoms – regardless of where they have been – should also get tested. Checking exposure sites, and getting vaccinated is our key to protecting our community.
Thank you to those who have already rolled up their sleeve. Currently more than 95% of Hepburn Shire residents have received one dose of vaccine, and 81.1% are fully vaccinated. If you have any questions about you or a family member visiting an exposure site, use the form on the Department of Health website – it is quick and easy to determine what you will need to do, based on where you have been: www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/what-to-do-if-you-have-been-exposed-to-covid-19
Finally, we ask the community to care for each other during this time. We are a small community, and we need to be mindful that those with COVID-19 need support to understand what is required of them, and to recover safely. Any one of us could be in their position, as this virus is not selective – it is highly contagious.
There are people in our community who will be experiencing anxiety and distress. If you or someone you know is experiencing distress, please reach out to your GP, or call HeadtoHelp on 1800 595 212. HeadtoHelp services have been scaling-up around Victoria to support Victorians' mental health and wellbeing, and they support Victorians of all ages.
If your mental health is suffering because of the pandemic, call HeadtoHelp now on 1800 595 212.
Central Highlands Rural Health are hosting a FREE online webinar that we invite the community to attend as we re-emerge from COVID-19 lockdowns. It is a 1hr online event to hear from mental health professionals about issues we may be facing. Discussions will include but not limited to, managing anxiety, alcohol and drug use and re-engaging with work and life matters.
When: Wednesday, November 10th at 7 pm
Where: Online via Zoom Presenters: Namita (Psychology), Mary (Social Work), Lee (Alcohol and Other Drugs)
Here is the link to register your attendance https://www.trybooking.com/BUVHZ
Additionally, for 24-hour assistance phone Grampians Area Mental Health Service on 1300 247 647. In an emergency please contact 000.
