Victoria’s healthcare system is bracing for another wave of coronavirus infections, with Goulburn Valley Health urging people to keep their vaccinations up to date and suggesting masks indoors could help limit the spread.
New variants arriving during the colder months, and at the same time as the flu, are expected to further strain the state’s health system.
The BA.5 variant is up to 25 per cent more transmissable than earlier strains of Omicron and is able to evade immunity more easily, which means people who are vaccinated or recovering from a previous strain are more likely to be able to catch it.
Over 30s were made eligible for their fourth dose from Monday, July 11, following ATAGI advice made last week.
Acting clinical director of Goulburn Local Public Health Unit William Cross said the number of cases in the region, and across the state, was expected to rise in July and August.
He said the increase might not be reported in case numbers, with fewer and fewer people lodging their tests.
“People may, however, notice more frequent outbreaks in their schools and workplaces. People may also find that the wait times for accessing healthcare are longer as GPs and emergency departments experience a greater demand,” Dr Cross said.
Coronavirus case numbers are rising alongside flu numbers, and Dr Cross said the risk of catching respiratory diseases would be “extremely high” due to the large number of cases in the community and increased infectiousness of new variants.
"It is advisable for people to avoid crowded settings wherever possible, such as waiting outside for takeaway food,“ Dr Cross said.
“When it is necessary to enter a crowded setting, it is advisable to wear a face mask to protect yourself and others. Regular hand-washing with soap and warm water is also advised, particularly after being in public places.
“People should remain at home if they have any new symptoms of respiratory illness such as sore throat, cough, runny nose or sneezing. This is important even if you have tested negative to COVID-19, as other respiratory illnesses such as influenza are also currently common in the community and may also cause some people to become very unwell.”
He urged people to keep their vaccinations up to date.
Dr Cross said vaccination was the best way to ensure fewer people ended up needing medical assistance.
“GV Health has seen an increasing number of people presenting to the emergency department and being admitting to the hospital as a result of respiratory illness over the recent months,” he said.
“Every member of the community can help our hospital through this time by taking measures to protect themselves and the community from the spread of COVID-19 and the risk of serious COVID-19 infection.”
Meanwhile, COVID-19 antivirals will be easier to access across the country after they were expanded under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme on Sunday for all patients over the age of 70.