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General News

4 May, 2023

MDHS’ COVID safety message for winter

Although COVID-19 cases have been rising across Victoria, the trend in the Central Goldfields Shire suggests a more stable outlook — and residents can help keep numbers low by following the local health service’s advise. According to the weekly...

By Prealene Khera

MDHS’ COVID safety message for winter - feature photo

Although COVID-19 cases have been rising across Victoria, the trend in the Central Goldfields Shire suggests a more stable outlook — and residents can help keep numbers low by following the local health service’s advise.

According to the weekly data released by the state’s Chief Health Officer, as of last Friday, there was a three percent increase in COVID-19 cases in Victoria from the week prior.

Out of the total 6225 cases, six were recorded in the shire between April 21 and 27 — with the data noting that there were five active cases in the community at the end of the week on April 28.

However, as the weather starts to get colder the Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) is warning that viruses could spread more easily — prompting a necessary safety message.

“While influenza and COVID-19 circulate all year round, winter is particularly bad for the spread of illness,” an MDHS spokesperson said.

“There are simple things we can all do to stay well and help protect family, friends and our community this winter.”

According to MDHS, people should:

1) Get a 2023 COVID-19 booster dose and seasonal flu vaccine.

2) Wear a face mask and practice good hand hygiene to help reduce the chances of catching the flu or COVID-19 or passing it onto others.

3) Keep rooms ventilated — let in fresh air by opening doors and windows.

4) Stay at home if they have symptoms, or if they test positive for COVID-19.

5) Pick up free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) from local councils if required.

6) Ask their GP if they are eligible for COVID-19 and influenza medicines if they are at risk of getting very sick.

In the shire there are a number of ways to obtain a seasonal flu shot or COVID-19 vaccine, the spokesperson said.

“If you’re 18 and over, and it’s been six months since your last dose or COVID-19 infection you can get your booster shot now,” they said.

“Central Goldfields Shire Council is also offering the flu vaccine at dedicated clinics in Talbot, Dunolly and Maryborough in May. The vaccine is free for young children aged six months to five years, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, and those over 65 years. If you aren’t eligible for a free vaccine, the cost is $15.”

You can make a booking to have your influenza vaccine through council’s Immunisation Service via www.centralgoldfields.vic.gov.au/immunisation or by calling 0428 894 724.

To find a COVID-19 vaccine clinic near you visit https://www.health direct.gov.au/australian-health-services/ — this will help you find a COVID-19 vaccine provider near you based on your needs.

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