Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker advises that the state is currently experiencing increased Covid-19 infections in the community, resulting in an increase in people being hospitalised in the lead up to the holiday period.
Dr Looker said that during this time, it’s especially important to be mindful that those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from Covid-19 and other respiratory viruses are protected – this includes people aged 65 and above, people with a disability or chronic medical condition and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
These are the steps you can take to help protect yourself and vulnerable Victorians from COVID-19:
1. Stay at home if you are unwell with symptoms of cold or flu. Speak to your GP if symptoms worsen.
2. Test if you have symptoms – take a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT).
- If you test positive and are eligible for antivirals, take them as soon as possible.
- You should stay at home until you have no symptoms. Avoid sensitive settings for 7 days.
3. Get vaccinated: stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine.
- Vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe disease and helps protect you from becoming very sick.
- You should get a booster if you are over 75 and haven’t had one for 6 months.
- Boosters are free for all Victorians and are available from your GP or local pharmacy.
4. Wear a mask, especially if you have symptoms or are visiting a sensitive setting: a high-quality and well-fitted mask can protect you and others from the virus.
5. Let fresh air in: open windows and doors when you can – it reduces the spread of the virus. Meet outside when possible.
6. Take antivirals if eligible: they can help stop people from getting so sick that they need to go to the hospital.
- If you are at risk of falling very sick, you may be eligible for Covid-19 antiviral medicines. You must take these within 5 days of developing symptoms – the sooner the better. See your GP for more information.