News

Community urged to stay safe as COVID-19 cases rise

By Benalla Ensign

May 1, 2024

Protect: With a surge in COVID-19 cases across Victoria the Department of Health is urging people experiencing symptoms to get tested and isolate if necessary. Photo by Megan Fisher

Community transmission of COVID-19 is increasing across Victoria.

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Anecdotally, the Ensign has been informed of an increase in cases in the local area and has been requested to publish some health advice.

The following information is from the Victorian Department of Health. You can find out more directly from its website at www.health.vic.gov.au

Recent weeks have seen a rapid increase in hospitalisation of COVID-19 cases (across the state).

This increase in community transmission is linked to a new variant, JN.1, which is causing similar impacts internationally.

During this time, it is especially important that those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 are protected against catching COVID-19 – this includes people aged 65 and above, people with a disability or chronic medical condition and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

These six steps can help you stay ahead of COVID-19:

Wear a mask: a high-quality and well-fitted mask can protect you and others from the virus.
Get vaccinated: stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine. There are new monovalent vaccines available that are highly effective at preventing severe disease. You should get a booster if you are over 75 and haven’t had one for six months. Other groups are also recommended to get a booster. Vaccines are available at your GP or local pharmacy.
Let fresh air in: open windows and doors when you can – it reduces the spread of the virus. Meet outside when possible.
Get tested: if you have symptoms, take a rapid antigen test. If you test positive and are eligible for antivirals, take them as soon as possible.
Stay at home: if you have COVID-19, you should stay at home for at least five days and until you have no symptoms. Speak to your GP if symptoms worsen.
Take antivirals if eligible: if you are at risk of falling very sick, you may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral medicines. You must take these within five days of developing symptoms - the sooner the better. See your GP for more information.

The Department of Health will continue to monitor surveillance indicators and keep the public informed of when COVID-19 transmission returns to a low level of activity.