Australia's top doctor reveals the two changes to our lifestyle that are here to stay - even after we beat COVID-19
- Professor Brendan Murphy said hand-washing would likely remain common
- He said the attitude of going to work sick would also be less common
- The impact of the two habits would help Australia become a healthier society
- Here’s how to help people impacted by Covid-19
Australia's chief medical officer Professor Brendan Murphy has revealed the two key habits the country will keep - even after the coronavirus pandemic ends.
Speaking alongside Prime Minister Scott Morrison as he unveiled Australia's three-step COVID-19 recovery plan in Canberra on Friday, Prof Murphy said some of the important health habits formed during the crisis were likely here for good.
Prof Murphy said he believed the attitude of powering through a cold' at work would continue to be frowned upon after the coronavirus threat was over.
Chief medical officer Professor Brendan Murphy said he believed the attitude of powering through a cold' at work would continue to be frowned upon after the coronavirus threat ended.
'I think we will see a permanent change in that cavalier attitude of going to work when you've got a cold or a flu,' Prof Murphy told reporters.
'We've all been guilty of that at various times, I know I have. We're all going to have to change that mentality.'
Prof Murphy mentioned that 'good quality hand hygiene' habits were also likely to continue.
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Prof Murphy said people staying home from work would help Australia become a healthier society overall.
'Even if COVID is gone – and we don't know whether it will be fully gone from society – that will help with flu seasons and help with general health in the community,' he said.
Prof Murphy mentioned that 'good quality hand hygiene' habits were also likely to continue
As he unveiled the government's three step plan to recovery Prof Murphy said it was important those with any cold or flu symptoms stay home and get tested for COVID-19
Addressing the government's announced three-step COVID-19 recovery plan, he said staying home when sick was critically important for its success and called for 'no more heroics'.
'No matter how mild your cold or your cough, stay home when you're unwell, and please get a COVID test,' he said.
'That's the best way we'll find these hidden cases of the virus in our community, is if every single person who has any respiratory symptoms gets a COVID-19 test and stays home.'
Going forward Prof Murphy said people should maintain social distancing and frequently use hand sanitiser or wipes when using common areas such as playgrounds.
He also urged workplaces to do their part and provide hygienic conditions to slow or stop any possible spread of coronavirus.
