Coronavirus (COVID-19): What you need to know

Friday 8 May 2020
COVID-19
For families

For the most up-to-date information visit the dedicated NSW Health information page. Press conferences can be viewed on the NSW Health Facebook page.

Information about visiting the hospital

Ensuring both our hospitals are a safe and welcoming space for patients and families is our priority.

We request that:

  • one parent or carer visit a patient.
  • no siblings or other children are brought into the Hospital.
  • strict social distancing rules be observed.

Our facilities are not open to the public at this time, except for patients and one carer.

A screening process is now in place to make sure no one enters our hospitals who may have an illness that could be passed on to our patients, families or staff.

Everyone coming into the hospital will have their temperature taken and be asked the following questions:

  • Are you a staff member, patient, family member or visitor?
  • Are you experiencing any cold-like symptoms?
  • Have you been in contact with someone with COVID-19?

All families with planned appointments are being contacted and screened prior to their appointment to make sure no one is at risk when they come to the hospital.

Any child who is considered at risk is being advised to contact the HealthDirect helpline on 1800 022 222, see their local GP or self-quarantine.

Where can I find reliable information about the illness?

To keep you and your family safe, it's important to refer to reliable sources of information. 

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The Australian Government's Department of Health website has information about symptoms.

What should I do if I think my child starts showing symptoms?

Options for medical attention are:

 Mild symptoms:

  • Your General Practitioner (GP)/doctor (please call ahead)
  • COVID-19 Assessment clinic (no appointment required). See Assessment Clinic details for our hospitals.

 If your child is very unwell:

  • Take them to the nearest Emergency Department
  • Call 000

 On arrival to any facility, you will be asked a series of screening questions and may be asked to wear a mask.

 If you are unsure if your child should be tested for COVID-19 please call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

What can I do to protect myself and my kids?

Hand washing is really important, especially before eating, after being in public places and using public transport. Always wash your hands after going to the toilet or assisting your children to do so.

Avoid touching your face, and cough into your elbow when sick rather than into your hands. Dispose of tissues and if you are unwell, stay home. If your children are sick, keep them home from school or childcare.

How do I look after my family’s mental health during this stressful time?

As the number of coronavirus cases rises across Australia, the level of anxiety within the community may increase.

Feelings of worry and unease are understandable in this situation and many of us will be feeling the stress and anxiety. For many families, this will be compounded by concerns for loved ones, social isolation and financial hardship.

Times of isolation at home and more family members together can provide opportunities for sharing. This constant contact can also place strain on relationships too.

It is important that we learn to manage our stress before it turns to more serious anxiety and panic. Children are very sensitive to adult and caregiver stress, so taking care of ourselves is integral to taking care of them. In turn, we are then more able to show compassion and kindness to each other and our communities.

Take time to think about how this situation is impacting on you and speak with your children.

See the age-appropriate resources on our Psychological Medicine page. Read our story on managing COVID-19 anxiety.

See the revision log for this information

  • Updated 20 May 2020
  • Updated 8 April 2020
  • Updated 26 March 2020
  • Updated 25 March 2020
  • Updated 17 March 2020
  • Updated 16 March 2020
  • Updated 10 March 2020
  • Updated 4 March 2020
  • First published 28 Jan 2020