Community facilities operated by Griffith City Council - which include the Library, Art Gallery, Aquatic Centre and Visitor Information Centre - plan to remain open as no confirmed cases of the disease have been found in the Murrumbidgee.

Council's general manager Brett Stonestreet said as there are no confirmed cases within the region, community facilities will remain open.

"There are no confirmed cases of novel coronavirus COVID-19 in our local government area at this stage," Mr Stonestreet said.

"Accordingly all council operated community facilities remain open with no changes to operations."

Council has recommended community members who are experiencing a cough and cold or flu-like symptoms stay at home and reconsider their need to enter community facilities.

The decision comes as the federal government has recommended 'non-essential' gatherings of more than 500 people no longer go ahead and anyone arriving in the country from overseas is now required to self-isolate themselves for a 14-day period from today.

Executive director of medical services at the Murrumbidgee Local Health District Dr Len Bruce said the Griffith Base Hospital's emergency department will continue to screen patients who meet the criteria.

"People with acute, cold, flu-like symptoms who are returned overseas travellers, or a contact of a confirmed case, are advised to be tested for COVID-19," Dr Bruce said.

"Unless you are critically unwell avoid attending the emergency department without calling first.

"NSW Health has developed diagnostic tests through our Public Health laboratories to rapidly diagnose cases.

"While there is concern in the community, the fact is our hospitals and staff are ready to deal with anyone who may present to our emergency department with any infectious illness ... spreading misinformation about COVID-19 is dangerous and only the facts should be told."

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People should call HealthDirect 1800 022 222, where a nurse will triage them over the phone and advise your next steps or contact your GP to arrange an appointment and let them know in advance if you have symptoms.

Further advice from MLHD indicates social distancing and hand hygiene are considered the best protection against the virus, with all members of the community encouraged to wash their hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly for 20 seconds, stay away from crowds, sneeze or cough into your elbow and stay home if you are sick.

There are no cases of COVID-19 within the Murrumbidgee as of March 15, but there are 133 confirmed cases within NSW.