The initiative aims to provide the masks to help protect some of the most vulnerable members of our community and to help reduce transmission of COVID and other respiratory diseases.
Benalla Health executive director of clinical services Lisa Waite said the free masks were about keeping the community as safe as possible.
“As we know, COVID is quite paramount in the community and the numbers of positive cases are impacting, not only on the community, but those working in the health service,” Ms Waite said.
"So it’s a way to help protect people in our community and it’s been shown that the masks are effective at stopping the spread of all respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.“
You can access the free masks from Benalla Health when you attend for a COVID test.
The clinic is open between 1.30pm and 3.30pm each day for appointments only.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas announced that more than three million masks would be handed out to communities throughout Victoria.
“Providing masks free of charge to those who need them most will help them protect themselves, their loved ones, and Victoria’s hardworking healthcare workers,” Mr Andrews said.
During the next four to six weeks every person that presents for either a free rapid antigen or PCR test will receive one box of 10 N95 masks, along with instructions on how best to wear them to reduce transmission.
Masks will also be distributed through some of Victoria’s community organisations including at multicultural, multi-faith events and First Nations gatherings, as well as through a number of disability service providers.
In addition, more masks will be available from PTV hubs and staffed train stations while authorised officers and some V/Line conductors will carry masks with them to hand out as needed.
Wearing a face mask can help protect you, those around you — and importantly, Victoria’s healthcare workers.
Face masks can stop viruses spreading in the air when people talk, cough, sneeze and laugh, which lowers the chance of spreading or catching COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases.
Wearing a mask is strongly recommended if you are in an indoor setting, can’t physically distance, have any COVID-19 symptoms, or are with people who may be vulnerable to COVID-19.
Masks are still mandatory in high-risk settings including hospitals, aged care and on public transport.
This announcement is in addition to the ongoing support local public health units continue to provide residential aged care facilities during emergency outbreak responses including free rapid antigen tests, personal protective equipment and air purifiers.
During July alone more than 1350 air purifiers, 1100 boxes of masks, 140 boxes of gloves, 75 units of gowns, 40 cartons of hand sanitiser, 60 boxes of face shields and 4000 rapid antigen tests were distributed to residential aged care facilities across the state.
All Victorians are encouraged to make sure they are up to date with vaccinations, stay home if feeling unwell, wear a face mask, physically distance and try to maintain good ventilation.
To book an appointment at Benalla Health’s COVID testing clinic phone 03 5761 4284.
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