Murrumbidgee's hospitals and medical staff are "well equipped" to deal with infectious diseases including the coronavirus, according to regional health officials.
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As of 6.30pm on Saturday, there had been no positive results for coronavirus among patients who have been tested in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District.
Emergency departments, intensive care units and specialised treatment and isolation areas are available in the event that we need to care for patients with coronavirus, according to Len Bruce, the executive director of medical services for the Murrumbidgee Local Health District
"While there is concern in the community, the fact is our hospitals and staff are ready to deal with anyone who may present to our emergency department with any infectious illness," Dr Bruce said.
"Spreading misinformation about COVID-19 is dangerous and only the facts should be told."
Dr Bruce said local general practitioners and hospital emergency departments would continue to screen those patients who meet criteria related to symptoms and potential exposure to the virus.
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"People with acute cold, flu-like symptoms who are returned overseas travellers, or a contact of a confirmed case, are advised to be tested for COVID-19," he said.
"NSW Health has developed diagnostic tests through our Public Health laboratories to rapidly diagnose cases."
Dr Bruce said people who were concerned they might have been exposed to coronavirus should call HealthDirect on 1800 022 222, and a nurse would triage them over the phone and advise them on the next steps.
Alternatively, people can contact their GP to arrange an appointment, but should let the doctor and their staff know in advance if they have symptoms.
GPs have a critical role in managing patients with mild to moderate symptoms, Dr Bruce said.
Patients with more severe symptoms are referred to hospital emergency departments for care and assessment.
"Unless you are critically unwell avoid attending the emergency department without calling first," Dr Bruce said.
"We have plans in place for the treatment and care of any patients who may test positive to the virus and need to be admitted to hospital."
Murrumbidgee Local Health District hospitals also have additional personal protective equipment for the protection of staff, Dr Bruce said.
As the coronavirus is evolving rapidly, Dr Bruce suggested members of the public who need information to visit the NSW Health website, where up to date and multilingual resources are available: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/diseases
Kerry Chant, the NSW chief medical officer, has told the media that preparations are being made on the assumption that about 20 per cent of the state's eight million residents will catch coronavirus.
