Coronavirus Update

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms can include:

• high temperature

• flu-like symptoms (sore throat, cough, fatigue)

• breathing difficulties.

In most cases the virus is mild and people recover quickly. However older people and those with medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, may become severely ill with respiratory disease or pneumonia.

When should I seek help?

If you are sick and think you have symptoms of COVID-19, seek medical attention. To speak with someone about your symptoms, call the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080.

How can I protect myself?

Good hygiene and social distancing are recommended. This means:

• covering coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue

• disposing of tissues properly

• washing your hands often with soap and water, including before and after eating and after using the toilet

• using alcohol-based hand sanitisers

• cleaning and disinfecting surfaces

• avoiding unnecessary contact with others (eg. hugging and hand-shaking) and staying more than 1.5 metres away from people.

Advice for Union Health members

Union Health will continue to provide the highest possible level of customer service for our members. This includes monitoring and following recommendations from health authorities in Australia and from the World Health Organisation with regards the safety of our employees and members.

There is no specific clinical category in your hospital cover for coronavirus. If you’re admitted to hospital as a private patient, most treatment is likely to fall under the Lung and chest category, which is included on all our hospital covers (excluding Basic+). If you have complex health needs that might require additional hospitalisation, such as cardiac care, get in touch on 1300 661 283 to check if you’re covered.

If you are experiencing financial difficulties because of COVID-19 quarantine or prevention measures please get in touch to discuss.