Three Filipino-Australians in Melbourne’s southeast have tested positive for Coronavirus this week. The three suffered flu symptoms and they immediately went to the doctor for testing. They are at home in self-isolation (self-quarantine) and have been recovering well. As their duty of care, they have informed their workplaces, families and those who were in close contact with them. Some of their friends and family members have been tested negative.
The three have attended events and gatherings in recent weeks but there is no way to pinpoint at this stage where they caught the virus.
READ: Filipino-Australian tests positive for COVID-19, says
“I’m doing fine”
‘Stay home and watch funny movies’
Dr. Lorie De Leon, a Filipino-Australian General Practitioner in Melbourne’s South East has provided advice to Filipinos in Australia who are panicking due to the coronavirus crisis: ‘Stay home, listen to Australian government’s announcements and watch funny movies’.
De Leon told The Philippine Times that panicking will not do any good. Instead, self-isolation for 14 days is recommended. She said it is best to continue taking Vitamin C and to sleep early so the body may continue to boost its immune system.
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a new virus. Symptoms include fever, coughing, sore throat and shortness of breath. Some people will experience mild symptoms and recover easily, while others may get very sick quickly and require around-the-clock medical attention.
Note: If you are sick and think you have symptoms of COVID-19, seek medical attention. If you want to talk to someone about your symptoms first, call the Coronavirus Health Information Line for advice.
READ: COVID-19 cases latest update worldwide
Testing
Your GP will tell you if you should be tested and will arrange for the test. You will only be tested if your GP decides you meet the criteria:
- You have returned from overseas in the past 14 days and you develop respiratory illness with or without fever.
- You have been in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case in the past 14 days and you develop respiratory illness with or without fever
- You have severe community-acquired pneumonia and there is no clear cause
- You are a healthcare worker who works directly with patients and you have a respiratory illness and a fever
National Coronavirus Helpline
Call this line if you are seeking information on coronavirus (COVID-19). The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week: 1800 020 080
For more information, please visit the Department of Health website.
