{"id":3383,"date":"2020-07-31T16:09:59","date_gmt":"2020-07-31T06:09:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/metronorth.health.qld.gov.au\/extranet\/?p=3383"},"modified":"2021-10-07T11:56:31","modified_gmt":"2021-10-07T01:56:31","slug":"31-july-2020","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/metronorth.health.qld.gov.au\/extranet\/covid-ic\/31-july-2020","title":{"rendered":"31 July 2020"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\"Metro<\/span><\/div>
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Dear colleagues,<\/p>\n

What a week we\u2019ve seen across Queensland. While we now have confirmed positive COVID-19 cases in the state, there is reason to be alert but not alarmed. Since Wednesday our fever clinic presentations have doubled across the health service with over 1400 people tested yesterday alone. Some of our clinics have processed around 4 times their normal volume of tests \u2013 a great effort. None have yet come back as positive in Metro North. This is very reassuring but is something that reminds us to be vigilant with our physical distancing, excellent hand hygiene, staying home when sick and getting tested when you have symptoms.<\/p>\n

Latest Update<\/strong><\/p>\n

Metro South\u2019s testing numbers have recently increased 10 times their recent usual rates of testing with no further positive outcomes reported at this time. West Moreton Hospital and Health Service have recorded the states only confirmed positive COVID-19 case today.<\/p>\n

We are focused on ensuring adequate staffing at our fever clinics to support the current level of demand for testing and have extended opening hours over the weekend and the coming weeks. We will continue to review these hours and adjust according to the demand for testing. It is important to remember that our fever clinics are not the only place in our catchment where you or others can be tested for COVID-19. There are a number of GP respiratory clinics across Brisbane who are well equipped to perform testing. A full list of these can be found on our fever clinics<\/a> webpage.<\/p>\n

Please be assured that as a health service we are well prepared to deal with the current phase of this pandemic. We have learned more about the virus since it came into our lives earlier this year. We are remaining vigilant to ensure we stay ahead of whatever curve that comes our way. At Metro North we have updated our COVID-19 documentation to ensure they are up to date and customised to the pandemic as it stands today. Our COVID-19 Pandemic Response Plan<\/a> has been reviewed, updated and published for your information.<\/p>\n

Over the weekend I have a team working with me to finalise updates to posters and signage across for our facilities, specifically these will cover lift and meeting room etiquette and signage for our hospital entries and Emergency Departments. I anticipate these will be distributed via facility EOCs by Monday.<\/p>\n

Gaining Control<\/strong><\/p>\n

Our DG Dr John Wakefield sent out a great update today and has again reiterated that complacency is our enemy. <\/em><\/strong>He also suggested that if you\u2019re not sure how you and your team can be COVID-safe in the workplace, initiate a team (physically distant) huddle and check to ensure everyone is clear on how to be COVID-safe in the workplace.<\/p>\n

It is so important at the moment to maintain a high level of vigilance at work and if necessary, out in the community this weekend. I urge everyone to avoid non-essential activities in the southern suburbs of Brisbane this weekend. Why not stay in and enjoy a few days at home?<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Additionally, Alanna and I are going to continue throwing our Metro North Mantra at you. It\u2019s the only way we will all keep on top of the situation.<\/p>\n

Regardless of where you work or where you live adhering to our Metro North Mantra<\/strong> is crucial in preventing further community transmission \u2013 it includes:<\/p>\n