Ipswich currently has no active cases of COVID-19 and the advice from Queensland Health is to get tested immediately if you have any symptoms.
West Moreton Health chief executive Kerrie Freeman said the increase in community-acquired cases in Victoria is a reminder that COVID-19 can spread very quickly.
“I am so proud of the way the West Moreton community has helped us to flatten the curve, but this pandemic is not over yet,” Dr Freeman said.
“No one is safe from this virus until everyone is safe.
“It is important that we continue to follow health advice regarding social distancing, public gatherings and general wellbeing.”
Chief Health Officer Dr Jeanette Young has advised that anyone with even the mildest symptoms of COVID-19 present immediately to a fever clinic.
Since fever clinic testing began in March, Ipswich Hospital has conducted 4,349 tests.
As of 14 July, 39 people have tested positive to COVID-19 in our region and all 39 have recovered.
As restrictions have eased, it is more critical than ever that members of the West Moreton community get tested for COVID-19 if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, fever (or history of fever), fatigue.
“We ask the community to keep up the good work that is keeping us safe by continuing to observe physical distancing and hygiene measures,” Dr Young said.
“We also encourage people to download the COVID-Safe app which will help us contact people who may have been exposed to COVID-19.”
Fever clinics are specialist clinics managed by Hospital and Health Services that assess people who may be infected with COVID-19.
These clinics help to keep people who may be contagious away from other areas of hospitals and health centres.
This helps to reduce the potential spread of the virus and keeps the emergency department available for emergencies.
Testing is free.
Testing and Fever Clinics in Ipswich
Ipswich Hospital Fever Clinic (drop-in only), Jubilee Building, near Emergency Department entrance off Chelmsford Ave, Ipswich.
Kambu – Booval (this clinic is set up for patients of indigenous heritage only) at 3, 160 Brisbane Rd Booval.
Booking available from 8.30am until 4.30pm Monday to Friday excluding public holidays.
To make a booking call 0408 699 432.
Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology – Dedicated COVID-19 centre, patients must present with a valid request form at Unit 2, 10 Churchill St (corner Warwick Rd) Ipswich.
Booking available from 6.30am until 5pm Monday to Friday excluding public holidays and from 6.30am until 11am on Saturdays. Bookings are not required.
Health Matters Karalee GP Respiratory Clinic – Anyone wishing to be seen at the respiratory clinic needs to make an appointment. For bookings or more information phone 07 3812 3133 or book online via https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/chuwarQLD-4306/ipswich-chuwar-respiratory-clinic/doctors or you can access hotdoc.com.au and search Ipswich Respiratory Clinic.
Address: 19-27 Junction Rd Chuwar. Hours from 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday excluding public holidays.
Flinders Peak Medical Centre Booking by appointment only at 355 Boonah Rd, Purga, from 8:30am to 4pm Monday to Friday and 8.30am until noon on the weekend (excluding public holidays). Bookings can be made by calling 07 5464 6765.
For more information about respiratory and fever clinics, including hours of operation, visit the West Moreton Health website and the Darling Downs West Moreton PHN website.
Need support?
Check in with yourself and others during this challenging time, and seek support when needed.
Call one of these free support lines 24/7:
Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Line 1800 512 348
Lifeline 13 11 14
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
Visit www.coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au for online mental wellbeing and support resources and discussion forums.
Or visit www.headtohealth.gov.au the digital mental health portal for more resources and support options.
