The region's health district has announced one new case of coronavirus has been found in a resident who lives in the region but is isolating in Sydney, as they thank individuals and businesses who have stepped up to donate essential protective equipment during the pandemic.
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In a statement released on Friday morning, the Murrumbidgee Local Health District announced there has been one new case identified in a patient who normally lives in the region.
The patient resides in the Albury LGA and has recently returned from overseas, with the patient currently in isolation in a hotel in Sydney.
The case means 45 residents who live in the MLHD have a confirmed case of COVID-19 as of 8am on April 17, with 32 patients recovering to date.
The Griffith LGA has no active confirmed cases as of 8am on April 17, with all three confirmed cases in the area having recovered.
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The update comes as the health district thanks numerous individuals and businesses who have donated protective equipment, allowing staff to have access at a time where stock has been difficult to come by.
MLHD's COVID-19 support services lead Michelle Sleep said the health district has been "overwhelmed" with donations and while they are appreciated, the health district cannot accept hand-made items.
"People in our communities are so generous," Ms Sleep said.
"We have been overwhelmed with the offers from so many who would like to donate equipment.
"Regrettably we are unable to accept hand-made items, and while we greatly appreciate the skills and effort which has gone into hand-made items, unfortunately we are unable to take these items."
Items such as masks, hand sanitiser and gowns worn by health care workers have been donated to help staff working on the front-line reduce their risk of transmission.
However, MLHD have said all protective equipment worn by health care workers must meet strict manufacturing standards, with items potentially also needing approval from state or federal bodies like the Therapeutic Goods Association.
MLHD chief executive Jill Ludford said no staff member would be requested to work without the appropriate protective equipment.
"We take the health and safety of our staff very seriously," Ms Ludford said.
"Every member of our team has access to the correct personal protective equipment, and we have also been providing training to our staff to ensure they know how to use the equipment correctly, and when to use it.
"We will not jeopardise the health of our staff."
Anyone wishing to donate to the Griffith hospital is asked to first contact the facility manager of Griffith Base Hospital.