Ambulance Victoria is calling on communities throughout the region to continue to be vigilant and stop the spread of COVID-19.

Ambulance Victoria Grampians regional director Tim Maywald said many regional areas would experience an influx of visitors during the school holidays and it was more important than ever to maintain social-distancing and hygiene protocols. 

“The recent spike in coronavirus cases has prompted fears of a second wave, but our message remains the same,” he said.

“If you go out, please continue to practise physical distancing. Wash your hands thoroughly and often, and don’t touch your face because the primary path of infection is through your mouth, nose and eyes. For the same reason, and for the safety of others, sneeze or cough into your elbow.”

Mr Maywald also encouraged people across the region to spread the word to other members of the community, including elderly neighbours, who might be unaware of latest restrictions. 

“The recent spike in cases might not just be due to people deliberately flouting the restrictions. Some people might not have access to the health information and advice available to other members of our community,” he said.

“We need to look out for each other, so if you know someone who might not be aware of restrictions, check in on them and if appropriate, direct them to DHHS website, www.dhhs.vic.gov.au.”

Mr Maywald said paramedics were taking precautions to ensure both their patients and themselves were safe from infection.

“Our paramedics are still wearing personal protective equipment to all callouts and are carrying out strict ambulance decontamination procedures after every patient,” he said.

“I also want to remind people who have health concerns, such as an onset of shortness of breath, chest pains, facial drooping or weakness, to not think twice before dialling triple zero, 000.

“If it’s an emergency, you will get an ambulance. If you don’t need lights and sirens, we will find the right care for you at that time.”

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