There is an increased risk of respiratory illnesses heading into the winter months.
Immunisations are available for many respiratory illnesses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is never too late to get vaccinated.
Early antiviral treatments for influenza and COVID-19 can help to reduce severe disease for high-risk individuals.
Simple hygiene and preventive measures like covering coughs and sneezes, regular hand washing and staying home when unwell can help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.
What is the issue?
There is an increased risk of respiratory illnesses heading into the winter months. In Victoria, the increase in COVID-19 cases between April and May this year was 2.5 times higher than the same time last year, and hospitalisations have been increasing. Flu and RSV cases are also increasing.
Young children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to respiratory illnesses and may experience more severe illness requiring hospitalisation.
Who is at risk?
People most at risk of severe illness with respiratory conditions include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, children under the age of 5 years old, elderly people, pregnant women, those who are immunocompromised, and those with certain medical conditions including diabetes, cardiac disease and chronic respiratory conditions.
While some people may be at a higher risk of severe illness, it is possible for anyone to be infected and become unwell.
Symptoms and transmission
Symptoms of respiratory illnesses such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV can be quite similar and include fever, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, body aches and fatigue.
These illnesses are very infectious and spread via droplets produced through coughing and sneezing, or by coming in close contact with infected people.
Recommendations
For the public
There are some simple steps you can do to help protect yourself and others from severe illness.
Immunisations are available for many respiratory illnesses including flu, COVID-19 and RSV. These can be accessed through GPs, pharmacies, local councils and Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisations.
Some Victorians may be eligible for free immunisations. For further information, talk to your doctor or visit:
Other things you can do to keep yourself and others healthy include:
Wash or sanitise your hands thoroughly and regularly, particularly before and after touching your face
Cough or sneeze into your elbow
Stay home if you are unwell
Wear a face mask if you have symptoms or visiting sensitive settings, such as aged care facilities
Talk with your doctor now if you are at higher risk for complications from COVID-19 or the flu. Discuss what to do if you get sick, including testing options and whether you are eligible for antiviral treatment
If you experience serious symptoms, seek medical attention.
If you ever have any questions about your child's health, symptoms to watch for, or when it's safe for them to return to school, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm happy to support in any way I can.
Thank you for your continued efforts and support in keeping our school community healthy. By keeping your children home when they are unwell, you're helping to reduce the spread of illness to others and ensuring a safer environment for everyone.
