As Victorians gear up for the festive season, the state has received an urgent health warning due to a sharp rise in COVID-19 infections.
The latest surveillance report ending November 16 reveals a concerning spike in hospitalization figures, with the seven-day average now standing at 197 cases – a whopping 59% increase from the previous month.
A Spike in Cases and Hospitalizations
The number of COVID-19 cases reported to the department has also experienced a significant jump of up to 44% in the last month. This sudden surge has prompted Chief Health Officer Dr. Clare Looker to issue a statement urging residents to take precautions, especially those who are most at-risk.
Protecting the Vulnerable
Dr. Looker emphasized that the spike in COVID-19 cases comes at a critical time when Victorians are planning increased gatherings in the lead-up to Christmas. “During this time, it is especially important to be mindful that those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses are protected,” she said.
Stay Safe, Stay Home
So, what can you do to stay safe? Dr. Looker’s advice is simple: “If you’re feeling sick, please stay home.” If you need to venture out or visit higher-risk settings like age care homes or hospitals, consider wearing a mask. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Antivirals: A Lifesaver for the Vulnerable
Dr. Looker also stressed the importance of taking antivirals if eligible, to avoid becoming hospitalized from extreme sickness. “If you are at risk of falling very sick, you may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral medicines,” she said. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations
Residents are also encouraged to stay up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 recommendations. “Immunity wanes over time, so staying up-to-date with your vaccinations will be your best protection against severe illness,” Dr. Looker emphasized. Make sure to check your vaccination status and get boosted if necessary.
Know the Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may appear between 1-14 days after exposure to the virus. Keep an eye out for:
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Chills and/or sweats
- Headache
- Muscle soreness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of smell and taste
- Loss of appetite
Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe
As we head into the festive season, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones. By staying informed, getting vaccinated, and taking simple measures like wearing masks and staying home when sick, we can reduce the spread of COVID-19 and enjoy a safer, healthier holiday season.