Businesses across Wagga and the Riverina have responded to the call to supply healthcare workers with vital equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Donations of masks, hand sanitisers and gowns have been made to medical staff in hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare institutions.
"I'm sure everyone has heard that some stock is hard to come by, and we have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that all our staff have access to the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to carry out their work," said COVID-19 support services lead Michelle Sleep, from the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD).
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Unfortunately, the MLHD has also received donations from individuals and companies that cannot be accepted due to the PPE not carrying acceptable clinical standards.
The MLHD has therefore reminded the community that donations must be medical and hospital-grade, meeting strict manufacturing standards.
In some cases items may also require approval from other bodies such as the Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA).
"People in our communities are so generous. We have been overwhelmed with the offers from so many who would like to donate equipment," Ms Sleep said.
"Regrettably we are unable to accept hand-made items. And while we greatly appreciate the skills and effort which has gone into hand-made items, unfortunately we are unable to take these items."
MLHD Chief Executive Jill Ludford said no staff member would be requested to work without the appropriate protective equipment.
"We take the health and safety of our staff very seriously," Ms Ludford said.
"Every member of our team has access to the correct PPE, and we have also been providing training to our staff to ensure they know how to use the equipment correctly, and when to use it. We will not jeopardise the health of our staff."
Anyone wishing to donate is asked to contact the facility manager of their local hospital.