Message from the Metro North Health Incident Controller – COVID-19 & Influenza update 430 | 27/07/2022

Dear colleagues,

• Current situation
• Tier 3
• Useful links

Current situation

We currently have 536 active cases of COVID in our care, including 170 inpatients with 8 in ICU (2 ventilated). There are 366 patients in the Virtual Ward. Unfortunately, we saw 2 people pass away from COVID-19.

Today 698 staff are away from work due to either being COVID positive or requiring isolation due to being a close contact. This number does not include other types of sick leave. Additionally, 131 close contact staff have been able to return to work as Critical Essential workers.

Tier 3

Metro North remains in Tier 3 of our COVID-19 and Influenza Response Plan. Under Tier 3, we have suspended all non-urgent planned care and increased our PPE in clinical areas to a minimum of P2/N95 mask and protective eyewear.

We encourage staff to wear masks in the community when you’re indoors or can’t socially distance.

Useful links

• Find a PCR test provider (including drive through, bulk bill, four-plex) on the Queensland Government website.
• Register your COVID vaccination dose.
• People with respiratory symptoms can make an appointment (often same day) through GP Respiratory Clinics.
• You can find a COVID vaccine provider using the Department of Health COVID Vaccine Clinic Finder website.

Take care and look after yourselves and each other.

Regards,

Louise O’Riordan
Metro North Health Incident Controller