Health and Safety Medical Alerts at Clonard College

With the cooler months upon us, it is a timely opportunity to remind you about the increase of illness in our community.

The Department of Health provides the following advice on preventative measures :

Information on Colds https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/colds

Information on Flu https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/flu-influenza

Information on Covid

  1. Wear a mask: a high-quality and well-fitted mask can protect you and others from the virus.
  2. Get vaccinated: stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine. There are new monovalent vaccines available that are highly effective at preventing severe disease. You should get a booster if you are over 75 and haven’t had one for 6 months. Other groups are also recommended to get a booster. Vaccines are available at your GP or local pharmacy.
  3. Let fresh air in open windows and doors when you can – it reduces the spread of the virus. Meet outside when possible.
  4. Get tested: if you have symptoms, take a rapid antigen test. If you test positive and are eligible for antivirals, take them as soon as possible.
  5. Stay at home if you are unwell: if you have COVID-19, you should stay at home for at least five days until you have no symptoms. Speak to your GP if symptoms worsen.
  6. Take antivirals if eligible: if you are at risk of falling very sick, you may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral medicines. You must take these within 5 days of developing symptoms -the sooner the better. See your GP for more information Covid 19

The symptoms of colds can be similar to the symptoms of COVID-19.

If you have any of the symptoms listed below, however mild, you should seek advice and get tested immediately.

To get further advice, see your general practitioner.

The symptoms to watch out for are:

  • loss or change in sense of smell or taste
  • fever
  • chills or sweats
  • cough
  • sore throat
  • shortness of breath
  • runny nose.

Some people may also experience headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Information on Colds https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/colds

Information on Flu https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/flu-influenza

 

Where to get help