Skye Primary School Newsletter

Health and Medical

Belinda Schodde | School Nurse                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Image by Dulcie Pula Long

Health alert

Status:

Active

Alert number:

241127

Date issued:

27 Nov 2024

Issued by:

Dr Clare Looker, Chief Health Officer

Issued to:

Health services, health professionals and the Victorian public

Key messages

  • Victoria is currently experiencing increased COVID-19 infections in the community, which is resulting in an increase of people being hospitalised with COVID-19.
  • This occurs at a time Victorians are planning increased gatherings in the lead up to the holiday period.
  • 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 – 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. Other groups are also recommended to get a booster every year.
    • 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. See your GP for more information. You must take these within 5 days of developing symptoms - the sooner the better.