On Saturday, that message was again reiterated by frontline staff at the Launceston General Hospital - some of the many health professionals who have no choice but to go to work at the moment.

In a matter of weeks we have seen the state's already overstretched health system rise to a new, unprecedented challenge. For that we once again say thank you.

A similar sentiment should also be applied to teachers, who like many, remain anxious about what lies ahead.

Because while many in the community have adjusted to working from home over the past week or so, and others - particularly those in the hospitality sector - have lost their jobs completely, for teachers it has been somewhat business as usual.

Except for the fact that many parents have already made the decision to keep their children home from school. For those who can't, there is fear and anxiety over what that decision could mean for their child, or the wider community at large. Parents are concerned and teachers remain anxious.

And it's not hard to see why. There have been continued national inconsistencies in messages around the best way forward when it comes to school closures.

As Tasmania takes further steps to what is ultimately looking more and more likely to become a full lockdown, the message from Premier Peter Gutwein on Friday took a new direction. As of Monday, parents who can keep their children home - should. But for many this will not be an option.

Being able to work from home is a privilege. However, for our essential workers with children, the issue is far from black and white.

The fact is we need them - particularly those on the health front - to be able to continue their lifesaving work.

We all have a responsibility to stay home, for those who can't. Just do it.