Published: 10 April 2020

With the outbreak of coronavirus in the North West the next 14 days are crucial because it can take this long for the symptoms to be evident for anyone exposed, Murchison MLC Ruth Forrest said.

"That is why it is so very important we follow all the rules to protect everyone in the community for as long as the rules apply," Ms Forrest said.

"This is why Easter is a really important time to stay at home and only go out for essential reasons.

''These essential reasons include getting necessary food or groceries, medical care or to get daily exercise - either on your own or with one other.
"As a community leader I care deeply about all members of the North West community. Regardless of your political views or how you vote, I care for and represent you all.


"I fully support Premier Gutwein and his government in their efforts to keep us safe and to save the lives of Tasmanians.

'I haven't always agreed with our premier, as many would know, and we have had some robust exchanges on matters we disagree on but on this matter, I fully support the very difficult decisions he has had to make.

"As a health professional I also understand the very real risk to many members of this wonderful community the COVID-19 coronavirus poses.

'We are generally an older population with a higher burden (or incidence) of underlying and chronic illness. We also have higher rates of smoking than some other areas of the state.

"All these things put us at greater risk.

'Your parents, grandparents, friends or relatives that have diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, are recovering from cancer treatment, have low immunity or many other illnesses are at serious risk if they get this virus.


"Pregnant women are feeling very vulnerable too and we must all act to protect them and their unborn newborn babies - we collectively owe this to current and future generations. It only takes one person to ignore the rules to put us all at risk.

"I acknowledge the devastation many are feeling who have lost their jobs and hope the government support available can assist.

"These are extremely difficult times and we need to treat each other kindly.

''I understand many people are feeling very uncertain at the moment.

"Many are frightened and many are confused by the rapid changing circumstances we are living through.

"I am finding it really hard too knowing that I can't visit my elderly parents, I can't visit my three grandchildren and I most likely won't meet my new grandchild that is on the way for months. I can talk to them regularly but I can't physically help them or hug them.
"It is really hard not to be able to do things we normally do at Easter, from going to the shack it you are lucky enough to have one or sharing a meal with family and friends."

Ms Forrest said she was available to assist members of the community at this time.

"Along with Yvonne in my office, we are easy to reach by phone, email or social media," she said.

"We can all do this together.

"I care so much for this community and its people and when we get through these really challenging times - I want you all there to celebrate our strong compassionate and caring community spirit.

''Stay home, stay safe and save lives - we are all in this together."


The Advocate Thursday April 9, 2020

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