As Australians are increasingly encouraged to self-isolate to help stop the spread of COVID-19, Ms Hosking said Port Stephens residents should consider ordering their medication and prescriptions online or through the Amcal app to ensure they are prepared.

According to Ms Hosking, there is no need to panic buy and is assuring residents that pharmacists are available to support and provide ongoing health advice.

"Amcal remains committed to helping the community with their health and wellness needs, as many are seeking additional guidance and advice as we navigate these uncertain times," she said.

"We have a range of ways we can help and provide advice, either in-store at your local Amcal Pharmacy [in Salamander Bay], on our website or by using our Amcal app which allows locals to fulfil their prescription needs from home."

Raymond Terrace pharmacist Ross Cairns, from Rachel Mulley's Chemmart Pharmacy, had similar advice for residents.

"I've personally been telling our elderly customers that I think are in the high risk category, those 70 and above, that I really don't think they should be out and about at the moment," he said.

"I think they should be trying to keep themselves at home as much as possible, avoid being anywhere that there's a queue, avoid coming into the pharmacy.

"I am happy to deliver their medication to them. We need to try and make sure that they don't get exposed. Because their only real defence against the virus at the moment is to try and minimise exposure."

To help residents prepare, the Examiner asked Ms Hosking to answer the most commonly asked questions about the coronavirus:

I can't get to the shops - can I still order my medicine?

Many Amcal pharmacies nationwide offer home delivery and we are committed to helping those in our community who are in need at this time.

If you need home delivery, a member from the friendly pharmacy team can ensure you receive the medicine, friendly advice and professional service you would in any Amcal Pharmacy.

Contact your pharmacy to check if they home deliver, find your local pharmacy here: amcal.com.au/store-locator

Is there a shortage of essential items and do I need to stock up?

Like many industries, Amcal has seen high demand for some items which has placed pressure on existing stock supplies, however we would like to assure Salamander Bay locals that there is no need to buy in bulk.

To help keep up with demand in Salamander Bay, we are working closely with our supplier partners to replenish stock as quickly as possible. If we work together, there will be enough for everyone.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The symptoms of COVID-19 can be similar to those of a cold or flu. They include:

Some patients may have very mild symptoms and, as such, may not associate their symptoms with COVID-19.

More information on the symptoms can be found on the NSW Health website.

What should someone do if they are feeling unwell?

If a person develops any of the above symptoms within 14 days of arriving in Australia or within 14 days of last contact with a confirmed case, or if they are healthcare worker, it is important they self-isolate and either:

Call the COVID-19 Triage Hotline on 1800 020 080 or contact your GP by phone, a dedicated respiratory clinic or to a hospital emergency department. Before visiting the GP or the hospital, patients must phone ahead and inform them of their arrival.

Should I get a flu shot?

Having the flu and COVID-19 at the same time can make you very ill. It is therefore important to reduce risk of the flu, which can be done by receiving a flu vaccination.

These are available from your local pharmacist with vaccines beginning to arrive into most pharmacies in April. Call your Amcal Pharmacy to make an appointment or book online now.

How can I protect myself and others against contracting COVID-19?

The best protection methods include practicing good hygiene and physical distancing. Good hygiene includes: