An Open Letter From The ER

To all Aussie fishos

I work in one of the biggest emergency departments in the country. As you are all aware, Coronavirus is a massive issue for all of us. There is a lot of good information out there, and a lot of misguided stuff. For me, at the moment, it’s like there is a massive cyclone off the coast heading our way, and we are just starting to get our first drops of rain. We are as well prepared as we can be, and I think in 2-3 weeks we will be in Cat 5 cyclone territory.

My advice to you all is this:

• Stay away from groups.
• Look after the elderly but keep your distance and your kids away from them.
• Isolate yourself as much as possible.
• Wash your hands.
• Don’t touch your face.
• Only go to your emergency department when you are unwell.
• Try and see your GP if you need to.
• Make sure you have your regular medications
• Eat healthy.

There will be 3-6 months of this.

If you go to the Emergency Department, be respectful of the staff. We have to deal with all the trauma, the critically ill, the violence, drugs, drunks and sick kids, as well as this new pandemic. We have spent collectively thousands of hours planning in a short time. We are as ready as we can be, but it’s going to be a tough, long ride. Many of us will get sick, all of us have heightened anxiety. There’s a very real risk of death as well, working in this place.

So guys, take this stuff extremely seriously, never be dismissive. Above all, go fishing! The ocean and rivers are virus free. The best place to isolate yourself is in your boat!

And wash your bloody hands!

Greenie