Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation which means it is a disease epidemic which has spread rapidly across the world. The virus is a new form of coronavirus and, prior to this outbreak which began in China, the world population had no immunity.

If you have a fever and are ringing for an appointment our reception staff will ask you a series of questions to help determine how best to manage your illness. Patients of the GMC calling about a fever may qualify for a phone or video consultation. We are constantly reviewing our management of patients on a daily basis during this time in order to maintain best and up-to-date standards of practice. 

Current advice by the Australian Government is to reconsider any overseas travel as you may put yourself at increased risk of contracting the virus. If you’re travelling or returning to Australia and arrive after 16 March, you will be required to self-isolate (Coronavirus COVID-19 isolation guidance) for 14 days. This applies to all travellers, including Australian citizens. For details see the Australian Border Force website.

There is no vaccination currently available for COVID-19. Usual influenza vaccinations are produced every year and will soon be available. Flu vaccinations do not protect against COVID-19 but do provide immunity for the influenza viruses covered in the vaccine. It is possible to be infected with both influenza virus and COVID-19 and flu vaccination is therefore advised.

For more information, the Australian Government is providing updated information and advice regularly. 

Links

• The Latest on Corona Virus latest from Smartraveller.gov.au
• Australian Government Corona virus Fact Sheet - What you need to know

Microscopy image showing SARS-CoV-2. The spikes on the outer edge of the
virus particles resemble a crown, giving the disease its characteristic name.