Senior Amcal pharmacist Brinley Hosking has advised locals to consider online ordering for their medication and prescription needs through the Amcal app, to ensure they are prepared as Australians are self-isolating.
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According to Ms Hosking, there is no need to panic buy, and she has assured locals pharmacists are available to support and provide ongoing health advice.
“Amcal remains committed to helping the community with their health and wellness needs, as many are seeking additional guidance and advice as we navigate these uncertain times,” Ms Hosking said.
“We have a range of ways we can help and provide advice, either in-store at your local Amcal Pharmacy, on our website or by using our Amcal app, which allows locals to fulfil their prescription needs from home.”
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To help locals prepare, we sat down with Ms Hosking to answer the most commonly asked questions:
1. I can’t get to the shops - can I still order my medicine online?
Many Amcal pharmacies nationwide offer home delivery and we are committed to helping those in our community who are in need at this time.
If you need home delivery, a member from the friendly pharmacy team can ensure you receive the medicine, friendly advice and professional service you would in any Amcal Pharmacy.
Contact your pharmacy to check if they home deliver, find your local Amcal pharmacy here at this link www.amcal.com.au/store-locator
You can search for other local pharmacies via google.
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2. Is there a shortage of essential items and do I need to stock up?
Like many industries, Amcal has seen high demand for some items, which has placed pressure on existing stock supplies, however, we would like to assure Benalla locals that there is no need to buy in bulk.
To help keep up with demand, we are working closely with our supplier partners to replenish stock as quickly as possible.
If we work together, there will be enough for everyone.
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3. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?The symptoms of COVID-19 include:
● Fever;
● Sore throat;
● Cough;
● Fatigue; and
● Difficulty breathing.
Some patients may have mild symptoms and, as such, may not associate their symptoms with COVID-19.
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4. What should someone do if they are feeling unwell?If a person develops any of the above symptoms within 14 days of arriving in Australia or within 14 days of last contact with a confirmed case, or if they are healthcare worker, it is important they self-isolate and either:
● Phone the COVID-19 Triage Hotline on 1800 020 080; or● Visit their GP, a dedicated respiratory clinic or to a hospital emergency department.
Please note that before visiting the GP or the hospital, patients must phone ahead and inform them of their arrival.
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5. Should I get a flu shot?Having the flu and COVID-19 at the same time can make you very ill.
It is therefore important to reduce risk of the flu, which can be done by receiving a flu vaccination.These are available from your local pharmacist with vaccines beginning to arrive into most pharmacies in April.
Call your local pharmacy to make an appointment or book online now.
6. How can I protect myself and others against contracting COVID-19?The best protection methods include practising good hygiene and physical distancing.
Good hygiene includes:
● Covering your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue;
● Disposing of tissues properly and promptly;
● Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth;
● Washing your hands regularly with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand sanitiser, especially before and after eating and after going to the toilet;
● Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces; and
● If you are sick, avoid contact with others.
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