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Public Health is urging Tasmanians to practice simple COVID-safe behaviours over the festive period to protect people most at risk of getting very sick from COVID-19.
With families and friends meeting to attend events and celebrate together over the coming weeks, there are simple steps that people can take to protect those who are high-risk.
Basic actions such as testing yourself before attending gatherings, staying at home if you have COVID-19 symptoms, and holding events outdoors if possible can make a big difference for people who are most vulnerable.
People at higher risk of severe illness include older people, those with chronic conditions, and many people in aged care, disability, and health care settings.
Director of Public Health Dr Mark Veitch said these small but considerate actions can have a big effect on the lives of others and will help keep Tasmanians at higher risk from COVID-19 safe this Christmas and summer.
“If you are going to a family or public event, particularly if you think you may come into close contact with someone who is at higher risk, consider testing yourself for COVID-19 before you go,” said the Director of Public Health.
“If you have cold or flu-like symptoms, please stay at home and get tested for COVID-19 – and if you test positive, remain at home and avoid contact with other people until you are well.”
“Holding group events and activities outdoors is good to do as it can reduce the chance of spreading respiratory illnesses.
“Many of us may also be planning to visit friends and family who are at higher risk from COVID-19, including in high-risk settings like hospitals and residential aged care facilities.
“Please do not visit these people or places if you are a close contact of a COVID-19 case, have COVID-19 symptoms, or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 7 days.”
The advice follows publication of the latest weekly COVID-19 statistics, which show that while reported case numbers have started to stabilise in Tasmania, the COVID-risk level remains Moderate.
In the week ending 16 December 2022, a total of 4,045 cases were reported with a daily average of 578 cases. As of 4pm on 15 December, 88 COVID-positive patients were in hospital, with 24 patients being specifically treated for COVID-19. Seven people died during the reporting period where COVID-19 either caused or contributed to their death.
Dr Veitch commented:
“Average daily reported case numbers have been stable since early December, suggesting we may be around the peak of the current wave of infection.
“However, the COVID-risk level remains Moderate, which means COVID-19 continues to circulate widely in the community and we need to continue to act to prevent infection and serious illness, particularly among people at higher risk from respiratory illnesses.
“That’s why it’s so important that people consider our public health advice on how to have a COVID-safe Christmas and summer.”
For more information about COVID-19 in Tasmania visit the Department of Health website www.health.tas.gov.au/covid19 or call the Tasmanian Public Health hotline on 1800 671 738.