Message from the Department of Health

The Department of Health has advised there is an increased risk of respiratory illnesses during the winter months. In fact, in Victoria there has been 2.5 times as many COVID-19 cases for April and May as there was last year. Cases of flu (influenza A & B) and RSV (respirator syncytial virus) are also on the rise.

Symptoms of respiratory illnesses like flu, Covid and RSV can be similar, including fever, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, body aches and tiredness. They are very infections, spreading via droplets made when coughing and sneezing. 

If you experience serious symptoms it is recommended you seek medical attention.

How do you protect yourself and your family?

• Wash or sanitise your hands thoroughly and regularly
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow
• Stay home from work, school or social events if you are unwell
• Wear a face mask if you have any symptoms or are visiting settings or people who may be at increased vulnerability to illness (elderly, newborns, pregnant women).
• Immunisations are available at GPs, pharmacies etc. Some people might be eligible for free immunisations (you can find out more here)