Author: Caryn Jacobs

100 Days

Posted on by Caryn Jacobs

 

Update 9 April

 

Today is 100 days since WHO (World Health Organisation) was notified of the first cases of “pneumonia with unknown cause” in China. How vastly the world’s landscape has changed since then.

 

What does WHO do?

 

Like me, you may be a bit hazy on what exactly WHO does. Helpfully, the Director-General of WHO, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, took this milestone moment to reflect.

 

Actions ramped up fast from 1 January, leading up to the announcement of a ‘public health emergency of international concern’ on 29 January. WHO initiated this highest level of alarm when 98 cases were identified outside of China. More experts and teams were mobilised.

 

Since then WHO has worked around the clock establishing five key areas of focus:

 

  1. Supporting countries in building their capacity to prepare and respond.

This includes a strategic plan that was issued to help countries know how to act in response. WHO also has been raising millions of dollars to fund the response.

 

  1. Providing accurate information and fighting the infodemic

(Infodemic?? Yes, this is a new word that WHO made up. It’s when there is so much information concerning the problem, that it impedes the solution.)

 

It’s an impressive list:

  • 50 evidence-based pieces of technical guidance
  • Tapping into world expert networks to capture support
  • Adapting advice for a wide variety of people groups
  • Daily situation reports and regular press briefings
  • Working with numerous tech platforms (like Facebook, Google, Instagram, Linked in, Whatsapp, and Viber) to counter myths and misinformation with reliable advice.
  • A Whatsapp and Viber chatbot in multiple languages to reach the person on the street with the latest information (currently 14 million followers)
  • An online workshop to crowdsource ideas from over 600 experts on ways to combat the infodemic.
  • Working with celebrities to promote healthy activity and world solidarity

 

  1. Ensuring supplies of essential medical equipment for frontline health workers

Already WHO has shipped millions of items of personal protective equipment to 133 countries, diagnostic tests to 126 countries, and they’re working on sourcing more.

 

They’re working with international financial institutions and the private sector to dramatically upscale production and supply of of life-saving medical equipment, to meet the need.

 

  1. Training and mobilising health workers.
  • More than 1.2 million people have enrolled in 6 courses in 43 languages on the OpenWHO.org platform. The target is to train tens of millions, and WHO is ready to train hundreds of millions.
  • Experts have been deployed around the world.

 

  1. Accelerated research and development. 

WHO has brought together more than 400 of the world’s leading researchers to accelerate research priorities, and is helping develop research protocols.  They’re coordinating 90 countries working together to find effective therapies. 130 scientists, funders and manufacturers recruited from around the world have committed to work with WHO to speed up the development of a COVID-19 vaccine.

 

And in all this, there is this underlying mission:

“We are especially concerned with protecting the world’s poorest and most vulnerable, not just in the poorest countries, but in all countries.”

 

(A round of applause for WHO!)

 

 

Zoning back in on Australia:

 

Why are Flights from Wuhan Landing in Australia?

 

Federal Health Minister, Greg Hunt, clarified that the only people entering Australia are Australians returning home. Any passengers will be quarantined. Each plane is highly likely to be carrying essential medical supplies, or supplies that are critical for the economy. These deliveries are a lifeline.

 

Regarding the traces of the virus on packaging: the coronavirus would not outlast the duration of these flights, particularly considering the temperature changes to which freight is exposed.

 

 

Don’t Stop Going to Your Doctor

 

It seems that Australians are worried about going to their doctor for usual health concerns. Firstly because we fear our safety, and secondly because we’re worried our doctor is overrun with COVID-19 cases.

 

Apparently, some doctors and specialists suddenly have much more time for golf, and are concerned. One pathology provider’s activity was down by 40% this week.

 

Dr Tony Bartone, President of The Australian Medical Association, explained why this is not good. In a usual week in Australia, tens of thousands of diagnoses are made of cancers, diabetes or heart disease. Early detection of these conditions means less complications and less deaths. If Australians are putting off visits to their doctors, the result will simply shift the load of serious medical cases into the future, when they are more complicated to treat.

 

All three medical bigwigs in a press conference in Canberra yesterday, urged Australians to keep up with usual medical reviews, prescription repeats and regular blood tests as needed. For those who would like to avoid face-to-face contact, telehealth or phone appointments are now an easily accessible option.

 

Healthcare doesn’t take a holiday. Go see your doctor if you need to.

 

 

The Stats for Australia

 

  • There have been 6,052 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia, and sadly, 50 have died
  • There are just under 100 people in ICUs and currently about 36 people on ventilators.
  • 2813 people have recovered.

 

We’ve reached a 3-day rolling average of a transmission rate of approximately 2% (down from the initial 30%).That could spike at any time, but it shows that the flattening curve has been consolidated. 

 

 

Hope Over Fear

 

Loving the World Through Generosity

The world has truly come together in global solidarity when it comes to financing the mammoth efforts to combat COVID-19 around the globe. WHO reports that when they called for funding, governments and partners rose to the challenge.

 

More than US$800 million has been pledged or received for the response. Part of that is the UN’s Solidarity Response Fund which has exceeded all expectations by raising US $140 million from more than 229,000 individuals and organizations.

 

Celebrities have also been rolling up their sleeves, with many donating to charities that are helping in the fight to combat COVID-19. Some of the really generous donations include:

 

Twitter founder, Jack Dorsey – donated $1 billion

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation – donated $105 million

Paris Hilton (The Hilton Foundation) – donated $10 million

Apple – donated $10 million

Lady Gaga – raised $35 million

Leonardo DiCaprio – raised $12 million

Oprah Winfrey – donated $10 million

Rihanna – donated $5 million

 

Celebrities who have donated $1 million include Roger Federer, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, Dolly Parton, Pink, Elton John, Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, Bruno Mars, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Angelina Jolie, George Clooney, Kylie Jenner, Giorgio Armani.

 

 

Your Tip for Today

 

Keeping Mentally Healthy

 

As we go into a meaningful weekend for many, where we might usually have been gathering at faith services for Easter or Passover, some may feel particularly lonely, anxious or low in mood, as they navigate the changes. 

 

It’s a good time to reach out to others, especially those who may be lonely – perhaps with a food delivery or a friendly phone call.

 

A new 24/7 support service specifically designed to help people through the COVID-19 pandemic is now available free of charge to all Australians. It’s coordinated by Beyond Blue and offers phone counselling, self-help tools and peer-to-peer support.

 

You’ll find this support on their website:

https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au

or via phone:

1-800-512-348

 

 

For a few basic tips, Beyond Blue offers the following wellbeing advice:

  • Try to maintain perspective. It’s reasonable to be concerned, but remember how many experts around the world are working hard to contain the virus and develop a vaccine.
  • Find a healthy balance in relation to media coverage. Limit your media intake if it’s upsetting you.
  • Try to maintain a practical and calm approach. Don’t panic – follow official advice.
  • Try not to make assumptions. Contribute to a sense of community wellbeing by remembering that the virus affects anyone regardless of nationality or ethnicity.
  • Seek support, especially if you have experienced mental health issues in the past. Stay connected with family and friends online or by phone.

 

Emerging Minds offers a comprehensive Guide to Living with Worry and Anxiety Amidst Global Uncertainty

 

Some alternate options: 

 

 

What About You?

 

At this special time of year for Christians and Jews, I  extend a blessing to you as you work out different ways of celebrating together.

 

  • What good news story do you have to share?

I’d love to hear your stories.

 

 

 

Information Sources

 

 

WHO Director-General’s Media Release – 8 April

https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19–8-april-2020

 

Federal Health Minister Interview with Alan Jones – 9 April

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/interview-with-alan-jones-on-2gb-sydney-about-coronavirus-covid-19

 

Free Coronavirus Wellbeing Support Service – 9 April

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/free-coronavirus-wellbeing-support-service

 

Federal Health Minister, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, and President of Australian Medical Association Press Conference – 8 April

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/doorstop-interview-in-canberra-about-coronavirus-covid-19-0

Twitter

https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/jack-dorsey-pledges-billion-dollars-to-covid-relief/

 

Celebrities Give Back Through the Coronavirus Pandemic

https://www.eonline.com/au/news/1131008/justin-bieber-and-other-celebs-giving-back-throughout-the-coronavirus-pandemic#photo-1084734

https://www.vogue.com.au/celebrity/news/these-are-the-biggest-celebrity-donations-to-covid19-relief-efforts/news-story/1b6a2a848fed8afc2147098fb6f23824

https://www.vogue.com/article/celebrities-donating-fundraising-coronavirus-relief

https://www.starsinsider.com/celebrity/391162/hearts-of-gold-giorgio-armani-and-other-incredibly-charitable-celebs

 

Emerging Minds: Guide to Living With Worry and Anxiety

https://d2p3kdr0nr4o3z.cloudfront.net/content/uploads/2020/03/27134648/guide_to_living_with_worry_and_anxiety_amidst_global_uncertainty_en-gb.pdf

Tracking and Treating

Posted on by Caryn Jacobs

 

Update 8 April 2020

 

Experimenting with Drugs. Medical Drugs, Of Course.

 

You thought it was only in the movies that they experimented on people?

 

You were right, kind of. It seems we’re coming close to finding the right antivirals to treat COVID-19, to the extent that some of these drugs are being prescribed (overseas?), but we have not got the all clear from the AHPPC yet.

 

The AHPPC outlined five drugs that are currently undergoing clinical trials. Some are known drugs, others are new. It must be a hard decision when they know people are dying, but they have stated that these are not yet safe to recommend, and correct dosages are not yet known, which could result in toxicity.

 

In the meantime, we stick to Plan A which is symptomatic treatment, supplemented oxygen where required, and mechanical ventilation if necessary.

 

 

New Finger-Prick Test

 

The Australian government purchased large quantities of finger-prick serological tests for identifying COVID-19 cases. The AHPPC has confirmed that these are not useful in acute (beginning) phase of the disease, but could be helpful for those whose symptoms are a week to 10 days in, when standard testing methods are more difficult. The new test may also help in future to predict immunity and establish that it is safe for individuals to be exposed to the virus and not at risk of exposing others.

 

Track Them Down

At the moment the loose cannons in the spread are the approximately 500 COVID-19 cases of unknown origin. They don’t know who they got the virus from, and their pre-symptomatic contact with others could result in ‘sleepers’ who have it and are also spreading it. Fortunately, social distancing is slowing this cohort down.

 

From a health perspective, the number one goal now is to find the cases of community transmission. That mission to mop up all cases of those who may have been exposed is happening through tracing possible sources, and testing.

 

Cases from overseas travellers are now well controlled. In the case of the Ruby Princess, all those aboard were quarantined within 12 hours of the disembarking the cruise ship, and their contacts traced and tested. Where there have been outbreaks around their suburbs, broader testing has occurred, to the extent that most cases linked to that were already known about and monitored.

 

Until each of those community transmission cases are tracked down, it could take just one beach party or house party where 30 people are infected, to create the risk of an outbreak affecting hundreds or thousands of people. That is why the measures of handwashing and social distancing remain so important, despite the flattening curve.

 

Recap on Australia’s Pandemic Response – The Path In

 

In his address to parliament today ScoMo outlined the many actions that have taken place in the last three weeks to protect the welfare of the Australian people.

 

He thanked the Australian people for doing the right thing, saving lives and saving livelihoods.

 

Here’s the summary:

 

Regarding the health crisis:

  1. Overseas travellers now have to self-isolate for 14 days in a designated facility.
  2. Tightened restrictions on public gatherings.
  3. We have one of the most comprehensive and highest testing rates in the world, with some 313,000 tests conducted across Australia.
  4. COVID-19 testing expanded to include people with fever or acute respiratory infection.
  5. Medical indemnity rules have changed to encourage health workers to return to practice.
  6. Up to 20,000 nurses are receiving online training to better prepare them to deliver care.
  7. An historic partnership with private hospitals has secured an additional 30,000 beds and 105,000 skilled workers.
  8. The Government has guaranteed the viability of 657 private and not-for-profit hospitals through this time.
  9. Non-urgent elective surgery has been suspended to preserve critical resources, while general medical services continue.
  10. Medicare-subsidised telehealth care services have been expanded, with incentives to health practitioners to stay open for face-to-face services where needed.
  11. $123 million is available for targeted measures to assist Indigenous communities and businesses.
  12. Australians with disabilities are supported through the NDIS.
  13. Action is being taken against those seeking to profiteer through the crisis by selling medical equipment at big mark-ups or overseas.
  14. $150 million has been committed to support Australians experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence.
  15. We continue to build our National Medical Stockpile.

 

 

Regarding the economic crisis – the biggest lifeline in Australia’s history:

 

  1. More than 200,000 additional JobSeeker claims finalised.
  2. Thousands of extra workers recruited to move through outstanding claims as quickly as possible.
  3. $130 billion JobKeeper package to keep people in jobs, and keep businesses in business now and in the future. It is estimated this will benefit six million eligible workers, and already over 700 000 businesses have registered for this support.
  4. Extended partner pay income test for those on JobSeeker.
  5. Business continuity payments to support child care services to stay open, and facilitating free child care. This complements $1 million of expected JobKeeper payments to the industry.
  6. Relaxing visa conditions for seasonal workers and the Pacific Labour Scheme to enable a stay for up to one more year. This is to boost the agricultural sector, which is, for the first time in a long time, seeing rain.
  7. Temporary changes to foreign investment to protect Australia’s national interest, will all foreign investments now requiring approval.
  8. Moratorium on evictions for six months, legislated by states and territories.
  9. A Code of Conduct for commercial tenancies, with good faith leasing principles.
  10. $200 million to vulnerable Australians and $60 million to older Australians, to help with food and essential items
  11. Mobilised the National Covid-19 Coordination Commission with Nev Power to enable the government and private sector to problem-solve together.

 

Phew.

 

 

The Stats

 

  • There have been 5,956 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia, and sadly, 45 have died.
  • There are 92 people in intensive care, and 36 on respirators
  • 2547 people have recovered

 

 

Hope Over Fear

 

Pollution Levels at an All Time Low

Social distancing is good for the earth, it seems. It has caused air pollution to drop in China, the US, the UK and India by as much as one third. One of the cities with the worst air pollution – New Delhi – has had airborne particulates plunge by 71%.

 

 

Irish Prime Minister Re-Registers as a Doctor

Leo Varadkar worked as a GP before heading into politics. When his country called for medical staff to rejoin the register, he offered his services. He is reportedly working on phone lines for one session a week.

 

 

Your Tip for Today

 

So none of us can go on holiday this weekend. Aaah.

 

One way to combat holiday blues is to make a way to do something you love or something completely new.

 

  • Backyard camping is a growing trend. It’s still the same sky, and it’s a way to get out of the house. And who says others can’t join you online? Get your the campfire blazing and share virtual campfire singalongs. Plus, there’s a significant advantage: the toilets are nearby and not shared.

For ‘Genius Backyard Camping Ideas’ check out BuzzFeed’s link.

 

 

 

What About You?

 

I’d love to hear your stories.

 

  • Have you experienced any COVID-19 testing yourself?
  • What ideas do you have for the Easter weekend?

 

I’m keen to see your comments below

 

                                                                                                                    

 

Information Sources

 

Prime Minister’s Statement to Parliament – 8 April

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/ministerial-statement-australian-parliament-house-act-080420

 

AHPPC Statement – 7 April

https://www.health.gov.au/news/australian-health-protection-principal-committee-ahppc-coronavirus-covid-19-statements-on-7-april-2020

 

Prof B Murphy in Q&A after Prime Minister’s statement – 7 April

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/press-conference-australian-parliament-house-6

 

Health Minister Interview on The Project –  7 April

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/interview-with-waleed-aly-and-carrie-bickmore-on-the-project-about-coronavirus-covid-19

         

Health Minister interview with Tom Elliot on 3AW – 7 April

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/interview-with-tom-elliott-on-3aw-about-coronavirus-covid-19-0

 

Good News Network – COVID-19 Updates – Pollution

https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/optimistic-covid-19-updates-for-hope-in-april/

 

Good News Network – Learn Morse Code

https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/website-teaches-you-morse-code-in-quarantine/

 

Sky News – Irish Prime Minister Re-Registers as a Doctor

https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-irish-pm-re-registers-as-doctor-to-help-tackle-outbreak-11969029

 

Backyard Camping

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-05/backyard-camping-keeps-communities-connected-amid-coronavirus/12117862

 

The Gift of Time

Posted on by Caryn Jacobs

 

Coronavirus Update 7 April 2020

 

Playing with Numbers to Find a Plan

 

Remember those novels where you could choose your ending? Well the Doherty Institute has been studying pandemics for a few years, and produced a few key graphs today to explain – theoretically – some different possible endings for Australia’s COVID-19 story.

 

Like modelling clay, they modelled numbers into different pictures, like this:

  • Using numbers from international scenarios, they started with “What if we did nothing?” That ended badly, with the demand for hypothetical hospitals being completely overwhelmed.
  • Then they crunched some more numbers to see, “What if we just quarantined and isolated those who are infected?”. That was a much better picture, but still the theoretical hospitals were overwhelmed by demand.
  • And finally they plugged in the numbers for checking, “What if we quarantined and isolated known cases, AND put in social distancing measures?” VOILA! The numbers that spat out proved that this was by far the best plan for maintaining control of the virus.

 

ScoMo reminded us that there is no clear path forward. As each country looks for their way forward, they may do different things, because there are no right answers. No-one has done this before. These theoretical numbers and hypothetical hospitals give us a basis to say that we’re doing the right thing for Australia.

 

Playing With Numbers to Predict the Future

 

Now that we have these modelling outcomes, the next step is to use the real numbers to predict and shape future scenarios. The problem is, our current data on 6000 Australians is not enough to make scientifically significant conclusions. In a few weeks we will have enough to do meaningful modelling. That will:

 

  • give us an idea of when to dial up or dial down social distancing
  • tailor the information to Australia’s focal outbreaks, like in NSW, rather than basing the outcomes on widespread distribution which was the international experience
  • give us more information on the mechanisms of community transmissions

How Will Australia Transition back to Normal Life?

 

ScoMo and Prof Murphy (Chief Medical Officer) confirmed there are a few different ways to do this, but we don’t know enough yet, to tell.

  • Wuhan took the option of eliminating the virus. However, this way the population doesn’t develop immunity, and borders have to be aggressively protected.
  • ‘Herd immunity’ means allowing the virus to take its course through the community until enough people have immunity so that it is no longer a threat. This is not where Australia is heading. Suggested benchmark figures start at a requirement of 50% population immunity before avoiding risk of transmission, and no country in the world has yet reached that level.
  • An option used in past influenza epidemics was to control and contain the virus until a vaccine was found. A vaccine would be ideal.
  • At present, Australia’s strategy is suppress and control the virus until we have a clearer way forward.

 

The AHPPC will be presenting a range of scenarios to the National Cabinet, who will in turn need to consider their ability to run the country in each scenario. The duration of each scenario matters, as government support is currently for 6 months.

 

 

The Gift of Time

 

The measures in place are buying doctors, scientists and the government more time to plan our way out of the pandemic, calmly.

 

The flattening of the curve is allowing capacity to be built in our health systems. We have now tripled our ICU capacity and increased medical staffing by hundreds of thousands of workers. We’ve gained enough tests to test broadly, and established enough facilities for quarantining and isolation.

 

So how much time do we need?  

 

It’s too early to tell, but Australia chose to take a longer term outlook, rather than plan for the next 3 months like many other countries have done. A timeframe was necessary to be able to plan support programs like JobKeeper, and to justify the unprecedented scale, scope and coverage of that plan. That has bought us six months’ certainty of lifelines for Australians, and hopefully enough time to map a way through and outof this pandemic.

 

ScoMo and the Chief Medical Officer’s message for Easter very clear:

 

Stay. At. Home.

 

Any gathering could undo the excellent progress Australia is making in combatting this virus. Keep doing what you’re doing, Australia – there’s still a journey ahead.

 

 

A Few Other Quick Updates

 

  • In a concerning turn of events, UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, was moved to ICU today after 10 days of battling a COVID-19 infection. He has deputised his foreign secretary, Dominic Raab, to drive forward the government’s ongoing response to the pandemic.

 

  • Since clinical guidelines for medical staff managing COVID-19 are constantly being updated, the health minister has announced a national taskforce that will provide a ‘living guideline’. It will provide mobile-friendly medical information and advice that is constantly reviewed and updated in real time.

 

  • Non-practicing health professionals are being invited back into the field in an initiative to assist the pandemic response. AHPRA, the national registration body for health professionals, is creating a sub-register for professionals who held registrations within the last 3 years, and are deemed competent and qualified to return to service.

 

 

The Stats

 

  • There have been 5,844 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia, and sadly 44 have died.
  • There are less than 100 people in ICU, and less than 40 on ventilators.
  • 1080 people have recovered.

 

 

Hope Over Fear

 

Easter Bunny Eggs-emption

Western Australia’s borders were closed as of 5 April, but the state’s premier, Mark McGowan made an exemption for a special traveller this Easter. Mr McGowan aired an important announcement for WA kids confirming that he had issued the Easter Bunny with an Eggs-emption certificate, so that their easter eggs could be delivered this weekend.

You can watch his announcement here.

 

 

One World: Together At Home

 

Lady Gaga has raised $35 million by collaborating with WHO and Global Citizen to broadcast a global concert – at home. The live stream concert will celebrate stories from the world’s health care heroes, and include messages of gratitude and appreciation from those they’ve treated. 

 

The event supports the UN’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund, which equips frontline healthcare workers around the world, with essential medical equipment. It also supports local charities that provide food, shelter, and healthcare to those that need it most. The fund has raised more than $100 million in less than two weeks for lifesaving work.

 

One World: Together At Home will be hosted by the likes of Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and some Sesame Street friends, and will feature these performers:
Alanis Morissette, Andrea Bocelli, Billie Eilish, Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, Burna Boy, Chris Martin, David Beckham, Eddie Vedder, Elton John, FINNEAS, Idris and Sabrina Elba, J Balvin, John Legend, Kacey Musgraves, Keith Urban, Kerry Washington, Lang Lang, Lizzo, Maluma, Paul McCartney, Priyanka Chopra Jonas,  Shah Rukh Khan and Stevie Wonder.

 

The event will be live streamed on 18 April 12am GMT (which makes it 9pm Brisbane time, I think…and sorry, not sure about the other states!) on a number of platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Yahoo, and YouTube, among others.

 

 

Your Tip for Today

 

Employers, team leaders, managers: What do you do if you suspect or confirm that a worker has COVID-19?

 

Safe Work Australia provides a handy infographic advising the following steps:

 

  1. Isolate the person from others
  2. Inform the national COVID-19 hotline – 1800 020 080
  3. Transport the person to their home or a medical facility
  4. Clean the area where the person was working
  5. Identify who at the workplace had contact with the infected person
  6. Clean the area where the close contact people were working
  7. Review risk management controls relating to COVID-19

 

 

What About You?

 

I’d love to hear your stories.

  • What are you doing for a home-based Easter?
  • Are you going to be watching One World: Together at Home?

I’m keen to see your comments below

 

 

Information Sources

 

Prime Minister’s Media Release – 7 April 2020

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-070420

 

Aus Govt – Theoretical Modelling on How the Health System can Respond

Impact of COVID-19 – Theoretical modelling of how the health system can respond

 

New York Times – Boris Johnson moved to ICU

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/07/world/coronavirus-news.html

 

WHO and Global Citizen – One World Together

https://www.who.int/news-room/detail/06-04-2020-who-and-global-citizen-announce-one-world-together-at-home-global-special-to-support-healthcare-workers-in-the-fight-against-the-covid-19-pandemic

 

Global Citizen – Together at Home

https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/connect/togetherathome/

 

AHPRA Returns Health Practitioners to the Temporary Pandemic Sub-Register

https://www.ahpra.gov.au/News/2020-04-01-pandemic-response-sub-register.aspx

 

Department of Health stats

https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/coronavirus-covid-19-current-situation-and-case-numbers

 

John Hopkins University Interactive COVID-19 Map

https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

 

WA Govt – Border Closure

https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-the-premier-and-cabinet/covid-19-coronavirus-latest-updates

 

WA’s Easter Bunny Eggs-emption

https://www.96fm.com.au/local/wa-premier-mark-mcgowan-issues-easter-bunny-special-travel-eggs-emption/

 

Safe Work Australia – Suspected or Confirmed case of COVID-19 at work

https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/what-do-if-worker-has-covid-19-infographic#picModal

 

What Staying At Home Can Mean

Posted on by Caryn Jacobs

 

Update 6 April 2020

 

ScoMo’s been quiet on communications today, so we’re zooming out to world news.

 

I learned something today. Working closely alongside the World Health Organisation (WHO) is the International Monetary Fund (IMF). I liked the clear explanation by Kristalina Georgieva – Managing Director of IMF:

 

“WHO is there to protect the health of people. The IMF is there to protect the health of the world economy.  …saving lives and protecting livelihoods ought to go hand-in-hand. We cannot do one without the other.”

 

 

When ‘Stay at Home’ Means Go Hungry – the Dilemma of the Poor

 

In a more sobering statement, Ms Georgieva said,

 

“Never in the history of the IMF have we witnessed the world economy coming to a standstill. We are now in recession. It is way worse than the global financial crisis and it is a crisis that requires all of us to come together.”

 

While the virus hits the health of the vulnerable the hardest, the financial crisis hits the weakest economies of the world the hardest. We’ve seen the devastating images of workers fleeing cities to the security of their rural homes in India. Developing countries that rely on exports are hard hit as prices collapse.

 

Developed countries like Australia can provide social welfare for their nations, but at least 90 countries cannot, and have requested help from IMF’s emergency fund. For some of these countries, ‘stay at home’ means go hungry. Their governments face the dilemma – do they support their people to survive, or do they fight the virus? The IMF is removing the dilemma of that decision in three ways:

  • Increasing the availability of emergency funding, currently a $1 trillion war-chest.
  • Raising grant funding to provide relief for debt obligation to the IMF.
  • Calling on official creditors to countries to permit a standstill on debt services for the next year, so that these countries can attend to their immediate priorities.

 

Despite this dark chapter in world economics, Ms Georgieva leaves us with a thread of hope:

 

“We will get through this, but how fast and how effectively will depend a lot on the actions we take and on making sure that in these actions we bring the world together.”

 

 

Transitioning Back to Stability

What will it look like when the heavy social restrictions come to an end?

 

Some countries in Asia have relaxed restrictions, only to tighten them up as the virus does its rounds again. Unless we have a vaccine, the virus will keep hitting us, right?

 

If we can still get infected, could that take us all back to square one?

 

WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, explained why it doesn’t have to. These strict social distancing measures are buying time to build and strengthen health systems. They give countries time to invest in a more robust response to enable us to live with this virus. Investments like:

  • Public health services – growing capacity through staff and facilities so that they can deal with the severely ill
  • Surveillance of the virus – contact tracing, isolation and quarantine
  • Building information systems
  • Therapies and vaccines to put an end to the virus

 

There may be a period of adjusting restrictions, relaxing and tightening again as needed to keep physical distancing, but this should not turn into a perseverating cycle lurching from lockdown to release and back again. Ideally, as we transition to our new normal, we need a public that is aware and empowered enough to know what to do if they’re sick – where to go, to have access to medical staff, access to testing, to be able to self-isolate. This is a state of disease control that we did not have before.

 

Health Minister, Greg Hunt, thanked Australians for what we’ve done to flatten the curve – we’re now down to only 5% increase in new cases, from the initial 30%. His comments in an interview yesterday reflected the WHO standpoint:

“Half of our job is to reduce infections and flatten the curve, and the other half is to boost capacity.”

 

 

The Stats

 

Worldwide, we have now topped 1 million confirmed COVID-19 cases.

 

Back in Australia:

  • A new daily dashboard of the stats for Australia can be foundhere.
  • There have been 5744 confirmed cases, and sadly, 36 have died.
  • There are currently 91 cases in ICU
  • 757 people have recovered.

 

 

Hope Over Fear

 

Jobs, jobs, and more jobs for Australians

 

  • The government has launched Jobs Hub, a website that enables you to search for job vacancies by location or by employer, and includes an overview of the most wanted roles. Check it out if you’re looking for work.
  • In South Australia, job assessments are being fast-tracked to keep the construction economy moving. A Planning System Acceleration Program will create more than 30,000 jobs in the next 6 months, clear a backlog of Land & Environment cases awaiting approval, and progress infrastructure projects.

 

 

And for the lighter side of life:

 

When Taking the Bin Out is the Highlight of Your Day…

… make sure it’s a worth every minute.

 

It started in one neighbourhood and has gone viral. Dress up to turn heads in your grand moment of getting out of the house to take the wheelie bin to the curb, and take a photo. The Bin Isolation Outing Facebook group showcases some of the 300,000 participants and is good for a laugh.

 

 

 

Your Tip for Today

 

Staying home can mean risk of domestic violence for some. More close contact, added financial pressure, and job stress can make the home a hotspot rather than a sanctuary.

 

For advice and information to help make wise decisions, have a look at some steps mapped out by the NSW government here.

 

Here are some key things that you can do to help improve your safety in a harmful situation:

  • always have a mobile phone with you in case you need to call 000
  • ask neighbours to call Police on 000 if they hear fighting, shouting or noises that sound like violence
  • if possible, have a spare mobile phone with prepaid credit on it

Prepare an escape plan. You may need to leave immediately to avoid serious harm.

  • Let a trusted family member or friend know that you may need their support if you have to leave quickly. For example, agree if you can stay at their place in an emergency or if they could pick you up from a designated spot. Or is there a women’s shelter or refuge that you and your kids can go to?
  • Have a code word that tells a family member or a friend that you feel unsafe and need help. That way you can make a call even if the violent partner can hear you.
  • Install the free Aurora or Daisy app on your mobile phone to help you get in touch with friends without the violent partner knowing and to help you find services such as emergency accommodation.
  • Have an ’emergency bag’ packed and ready with essential items. Hide it or give the bag to a trusted family member or friend to keep for you.

 

Australian Helplines:

Domestic Violence Line

1800 656 463

 

National Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Helpline (24 hours): 

1800 737 732 (1800 Respect)

 

Lifeline: 

131 114

 

Child Protection Helpline

13 2111

 

 

What About You?

 

I’d love to hear your stories.

 

  • What are you grateful for today?
  • Are you enjoying your wheelie bin outings?
  • What do you think our ‘new normal’ will look like?

 

I’m keen to see your comments below.

 

 

 

Information Sources

 

WHO Press Conference – 3 April

https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/documents/covid-19-virtual-press-conference-transcript-3-april-2020.pdf?sfvrsn=43e2f2f3_6

 

Minister of Health

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/interview-with-tara-brown-on-60-minutes-about-covid-19

 

Department of Health stats

https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/coronavirus-covid-19-current-situation-and-case-numbers

 

John Hopkins University COVID-19 map

https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

 

Jobs Hub

https://www.dese.gov.au/covid-19/jobs-hub

 

Bin Isolation Outing Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/306002627033697/

 

NSW jobs boost through fast-tracked planning system

https://preview.nsw.gov.au/news/jobs-boost-through-fast-tracked-planning-system

 

NSW Gov – Domestic violence – How to stay safe

https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/domestic-violence/stay-safe

 

 

 

The Curve Flattens

Posted on by Caryn Jacobs

 

Update 3 April

 

Australia’s Curve is Flattening – but the Marathon Continues

 

Your sacrifice of social distancing and quarantining is working. Australia’s new cases of COVID-19 have steadily declined each day, which is flattening the curve. Looking at graphs from other countries who were in the stage we’re now at, this means that together we’ve probably already saved about 5000 lives.

 

But we can’t get too excited yet. This result may not last. We haven’t hit winter yet, when people become more susceptible to sickness. The Chief Medical Officer, Dr Brendan Murphy, and Health Minister, Greg Hunt, have both stressed the importance of keeping up with social distancing, despite the good progress. We’re in this for the long haul – at least 6 months.

 

Virus testing and tracing has played a huge role in Australia getting ahead. These tools have enabled the more concerning list of cases arising from community transmission – people who don’t know the source of their infection – to be identified and monitored.

 

Can We Stop the Spread to Remote Areas?

 

This risk gains attention now as remote farming regions recruit labour following a season of rainfall, causing their crops to grow. Productive farms are great news for farmers who have recently suffered droughts and bush fires. They don’t need COVID-19. Especially since hospitals and ICU wards with ventilators are not always close by.

 

To support farmers, backpackers and other casual labourers are now allowed to travel interstate for this work, but must quarantine on arrival. Employers will require a certificate of quarantine before workers will be permitted to start.

 

For at-risk indigenous communities in remote areas, the minister of health has issued a biosecurity order which places a ring of containment around them, preventing movement in and out, other than for essential workers.

 

If you Can’t Pay the Rent

 

ScoMo previously announced protection for private renters by placing evictions on hold for 6 months.

 

Today’s announcement was for businesses who rent property, particularly small and medium sized businesses. Legislation is underway, but in the interim ScoMo outlined a number of principles. Negotiation between both parties to find payment solutions is encouraged. The principles include supports like reducing rent based on business turnover, and not having increases, penalties or additional charges for unpaid rent. Landlords who sign up to the new code of conduct may be eligible for tax waivers.

 

Religious Restriction Eased

 

That lonely guitarist who had to lead worship on his own, staring at a camera, can now have his (socially-distanced) band back for livestreamed church services.

 

Places of worship that livestream their services can now have more than two people involved in the recordings, as they will be considered places of work. This will be helpful around Easter where ceremonies may include more than two people.

 

 

The Stats

 

There are more than 5,315 confirmed cases in Australia and sadly 27 people have died. 

 

520 people in Australia have recovered from COVID-19.

 

 

Hope Over Fear

 

Australians from all walks of life are rallying to boost the supply of medical equipment.

 

  • Owners of 3D printers, including local high schools, are making face shields for their local hospitals. (Watch Ferny Grove High School’s video on Facebook here)
  • A curtain maker in Cairns has shifted gears to help make face masks for health workers in Queensland’s Far North.

 

Health Minister Greg Hunt confirmed that 15 million face masks arrived in Australia in recent days, with 30 million more expected. The current order is for 400 million masks in total, which will be distributed by the National Medical Stockpile.

 

 

Your Tip for Today

 

A primary school chaplain recently told me that she had to reassure one child that the coronavirus is not a monster that comes to kill children in their beds.

 

So how do you share the facts with children?

 

Beyond Blue has these suggestions:

  • Discuss news of the virus in an open and honest way
  • Try to relate the facts without causing alarm, taking into account their age and their temperament
  • Listen to any questions they may have
  • Let them know they are safe and that it’s normal to feel concerned
  • If the media or news is getting to them, limit their exposure. You’ll find a handy YouTube video on ‘Helping Kids Cope With Scary Stuff in the News’ here.

For younger children:

  • Maintain regular routines and rituals where possible
  • Help them to explore their feelings.
  • Use play to stay connected, and to help them feel valued and accepted. Play often helps children to express their feelings before they have the words to say how they feel.
  • Look for changes in behaviour – stress and anxiety could come out as tiredness, withdrawal or moodiness, among other things

 

Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 Kids Helpline WebChat counselling

 

 

What About You?

I’d love to hear from you. What’s your story? 

  • How are you managing social distancing? What tips do you have for enjoying your home environment?
  • Have you had to stare down a camera for a livestreamed event? Which event?
  • What strange thoughts have your children expressed about the coronavirus?

 

 Please leave me a comment below.

 

Information Sources

 

Prime Minister’s Media Release – 3 April

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-030420

 

Prime Minister’s Press Conference – 2 April

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/press-conference-australian-parliament-house-act-020420

 

Health Minister – 1 April

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/interview-with-michael-usher-on-7news-the-latest-about-covid-19

 

John Hopkins University COVID-19 interactive Map

https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6

 

Paul Murray (Sky News) podcast 3 April 2020 – PM in the AM

Local High School Makes Face Shields

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=202688464367680

 

Beyond Blue – Supporting early learning communities

https://beyou.edu.au/resources/news/covid-19-supporting-early-learning-communities

 

Beyond Blue – Helping Kids Cope With Scary Stuff in the News

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_URnXXK4Ag&feature=youtu.be

 

More Lifelines

Posted on by Caryn Jacobs

Coronavirus Update 2 April

 

Relief for Childcare and Early Education

 

Good news if you’re an Australian who relies on childcare and early learning centres: today ScoMo announced another package of financial support, this time for you.

  • It’s good news if you’re one of Australia’s 13,000 early education services, because you’ll receive funding that will help to keep the doors open at a time when enrolments are unpredictable. This funding complements the JobKeeper package made available yesterday. It will be calculated at 50% of the sector’s revenue, based on a number of factors.
  • It’s good news if you’re a parent of a pre-schooler, because you may be eligible for free childcare if you are working, have lost your job, or if your children are vulnerable or disadvantaged. After-school care and vacation care are included.
  • It’s good news for children, because they need familiarity and continuity at a time like this.

 

Parents are encouraged to re-engage with your childcare service if you had withdrawn. Speak to your early education centre for more details.

 

 

Private Hospitals Given a Lifeline to Remain Life-giving

When nonessential surgery was suspended last Wednesday, private and not for profit hospitals were stuck, because up to 70% of their revenue is generated through elective surgeries. However, once again private and public sectors have successfully worked together to strengthen Australia’s response to COVID-19.

 

In a deal with the Federal Government, Australia’s 657 private hospitals have offered up 34,000 beds, made ICU facilities available, provided essential medical equipment like ventilators, and sourced as many as 105,000 medical staff to help the fight.

 

In return, the Commonwealth has provided $1.3 billion to guarantee the survival of private hospitals during the period that elective surgery is cancelled.

 

 

Rogue Travellers

 

It’s unbelievable, but in the fortnight after ScoMo banned nonessential international travel, 16,000 Australians flew out of Australia, with 3800 leaving in the last week of March. It’s like herding cats! Surely these could not have all been essential trips? Some are saying these travellers should foot the quarantine hotel bill themselves when they return. 

 

 

Race for a Vaccine

 

Across the globe, the World Health Organisation (WHO) is working with scientists on 20 different COVID-19 vaccines. Four vaccines are being developed in Australia, and our universities are calling for a national research strategy to prevent duplication. Clinical trials are already underway. That is super fast for this kind of work, but it is still expected to take at least 18 months before a workable vaccine can go to market.

 

As Dr Mike Ryan, executive director of WHO’s emergencies program emphatically cautions:

  • A bad vaccine is worse than a bad virus
  • Most of the world’s population will need to be injected with the vaccine for it to be effective, so it has to be very carefully developed.
  • Once we have a vaccine we need to ensure there is enough to distribute across the whole world, including to those who cannot afford it.

 

In the meantime, the Medical Research Future Fund has granted researchers more than $2.6 million to find a simpler test for the virus. The fund is simultaneously providing grants for researchers to develop treatments for COVID-19. These two tools are likely to materialise sooner than a vaccine.

 

 

The Stats

 

  • There have been 4,976 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia.
  • 21 have died.
  • More than 261,000 tests have been conducted across Australia. That makes us the first country to test as much as 1% of the population (ie: this is high!).

 

 

Hope Over Fear

 

  • A growing movement of chalk drawings by children is empowering them to be agents of hope and positivity to their communities while keeping to social-distancing. The drawings foster hope, and a sense of the community caring about each other. Adults are also getting on board, with footpath trivia and notes of thanks outside Centrelink.
  • WHO has just launched an interactive chatbot using Viber, to help pass along accurate information and fight misinformation. Subscription is free. Subscribers will learn how to protect themselves, and can test their knowledge to help bust coronavirus myths.

Join the WHO Viber service: https://vb.me/82e535

 

Your Tip for Today

 

What’s the difference between quarantine and self-isolation?

 

Quarantine: maybe you have it, maybe you don’t.

  • Sorry! You need to isolate yourself for 14 days to wait and see, because you could spread the virus before you know you’re sick (the incubation stage).
  • If you do become unwell, you’ll need to be tested.
  • Either way – please, please, please complete the full 14 days of isolation.
  • If you test positive for Covid-19, anyone that was in close contact with you will also have to go into quarantine because … maybe they have it, maybe they don’t. You get the picture.

Close contact is more than 15 minutes’ face to face contact or more than 2 hours in a room or enclosed space with you

Self-isolation: you have it – stay strictly away!

  • You are still well enough be looked after at home. (Find the rules for self-isolation here.)
  • You can only come out of self-isolation if all of the following apply:
    • more than seven days since you became unwell
    • at least two days with no fever
    • at least one day of feeling better/having no symptoms
    • two tests 24 hours apart that are both negative

 

See the difference? 

 

What About You?

Tell me your story. I’d love to hear from you.

  • Have you seen chalk drawings in your neighbourhood? What did you think?
  • Have you been using childcare or early childhood services? How does the new support impact you?
  • Are you in quarantine or self-isolation? Tell me your story.

 I’m keen to see your comments below.

 

Information Sources

 

Prime Minister’s Media Release – 2 April 2020

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/early-childhood-education-and-care-relief-package

 

Health Minister Greg Hunt Media Release – 31 March

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/australian-government-partnership-with-private-health-sector-secures-30000-hospital-beds-and-105000-nurses-and-staff-to-help-fight-covid-19-pandemic

 

Department of Health Stats – 2 April

https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/coronavirus-covid-19-current-situation-and-case-numbers

 

The Guardian – Private Hospitals Face Closure – 28 March

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/28/australias-private-hospitals-face-closure-after-coronavirus-causes-elective-surgery-ban

 

ABC News – Private hospitals free up beds in deal with Federal Government – 31 March

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-31/coronavirus-agreement-to-keep-private-hospitals-open/12106496

 

Paul Murray (SkyNews) podcast 2 April 2020: PM in the AM

 

CNBC – 20 coronavirus vaccines in development – 20 March

https://www.cnbc.com/2020/03/20/who-officials-say-at-least-20-coronavirus-vaccines-are-in-development-in-global-race-for-cure.html

 

ABC News – Chalk messages bringing hope

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-02/coronavirus-covid-19-chalk-messages-on-streets-around-australia/12102778

 

WHO Chatbot – 31 March

https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/who-and-rakuten-viber-fight-covid-19-misinformation-with-interactive-chatbot

 

RACGP – News GP

https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/gp-opinion/so-you-have-been-asked-to-self-isolate-or-quaranti

 

 

Coronavirus Update 1 April

Posted on by Caryn Jacobs

 

How Many Zeros in 320 billion?

Scroll to the end for the answer.

Has it blown your mind yet how much the government is releasing to look after Australians?

 

JobKeeper

Maybe you were one of many Australians who breathed an audible sigh of relief as the government once again provided a welcome income buffer? The JobKeeper package was outlined by the Treasurer yesterday. It’s historically unprecedented, and good news for any worker who has been stood down since 1 March, or whose job is under threat because business is bad.

 

And it’s good news for employers facing the tough possibility of letting valued staff go. With this boost, even if businesses go into hibernation, employers can keep their people on the books for when they bounce back.

It’s immediate – it begins right now.

It’s serious – it’s going to become a legal obligation to employers, delivered by employers, with reimbursement to them through the ATO.

Talk to your employer to find out more.

 

So how are we doing health-wise?

Initial hopes remain high that our changes in lifestyle are effectively flattening the curve. We are warned, though, that it’s early days, and we still have a marathon ahead. The “stay at home” and social distancing advice remains a priority. (Encouraging graphhere)

 

An Army….of Carers

Queensland Premier, Anna Palaszczuk, mobilised a Care Army of volunteers yesterday to support and protect seniors. A new telephone hotline has been launched, and awareness campaigns on how we can help seniors are underway.

Queenslanders wishing to volunteer can contact 1800 173 349.

 

 

The Stats

 

  • 4707 were Australians confirmed as having COVID-19 as at 6:00am on 1 April. Most are from New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.
  • 20 have died from COVID-19, with Tasmania counting a second death yesterday on their tally.
  • More than 250,000 tests have been conducted across Australia.

 

 

Hope Over Fear

Today’s good news:

Public and private sectors are joining forces to meet the country’s needs, with innovative solutions resulting.

  • A Queensland manufacturer, Triple Eight Race Engineering, has developed a low-cost ventilator prototype, after usual operations were suspended due to the cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix. The initiative is now working to meet regulatory requirements.
  • Distilleries across Australia are turning productions from beverages to hand-santiser. An Instagram from cricketer Shane Warne, co-owner of SevenZeroEight distillery said, “This is a challenging time for Australians and we all need to do what we can to help our healthcare system combat this disease and save lives.” For some breweries, like The Bellarine Brewing Co in Victoria, the change in operation may help keep the business afloat.

 

Around the world, countries are buddying up too. Two months ago WHO asked the G20 (‘privileged’) countries for US$ 675 million in donations to help support countries worldwide to prepare for and respond to COVID-19. They have collectively come to the table with $622 million already.

 “In the eye of a storm like COVID, scientific and public health tools are essential, but so are humility and kindness. 

With solidarity, humility and assuming the best of each other, we can – and will – overcome this together.” 

  • WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus 

 

Your Tip for Today

 

If you’re worried that you’ve contracted COVID-19 there are interactive self-assessments you can take online to work out what to do.

Select the relevant link below or check your state’s health website:

QLD

NSW

VIC

 

 

Quick trivia: What are the symptoms of COVID-19? Scroll down for the answer.

 

 

What About You?

I’d love to hear your stories.

  • What acts of humility and kindness have you seen?
  • Will you benefit from any of the latest government packages? What does that mean for you?

 

Let me know how you’re going. Please leave a comment.

 

Answers:

How many zeros in 320 billion?

Nine – 320,000,000,000. That’s a lot of dollars.

 

Symptoms of COVID-19?

Surprisingly, not sneezing.

  • fever
  • sore throat
  • cough
  • tiredness
  • difficulty breathing.

While coronavirus is of concern, it is important to remember that most people displaying these symptoms are likely suffering with a cold or other respiratory illness – not coronavirus.

 

 

Information Sources

 

Department of Health stats

https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/coronavirus-covid-19-current-situation-and-case-numbers

 

Prime Minister’s media releases 30 March 2020

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/130-billion-jobkeeper-payment-keep-australians-job

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/press-conference-australian-parliament-house-act-14

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/statement-update-coronavirus-measures

 

WHO – Director-General media release 30 March

https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19—30-march-2020

 

ATO – JobKeeeper Information

https://www.ato.gov.au/general/gen/JobKeeper-payment/

 

Australian Government – Covid-19 Status Notification Form

https://covid-form.service.gov.au

 

QLD Government – From racing cars to ventilators

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/4/1/from-racing-cars-to-ventilators-queensland-ingenuity-at-its-best

 

QLD Government – Care Army

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/4/1/care-army-mobilised-to-support-and-protect-seniors-from-coronavirus

 

The New Daily – Distilleries are switching form alcohol to hand sanitiser

https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/good-news/2020/03/24/coronavirus-the-us-distilleries-stitching-from-alcohol-to-hand-sanitiser/

 

Dept of Health – FAQ

https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-frequently-asked-questions

 

Paul Murray (Sky News) podcast 1 April 2020: PM in the AM