Geelong residents are being urged to consider topping up their COVID-19 vaccinations, as case numbers across Australia continue to rise in the lead-up to the busiest social time of the year.
With less than four weeks until Christmas COVID hospitalisations across Victoria remain high compared to recent months, and deaths are once again on the increase.
According to the latest data people over the age of fifty are still at most risk, making up around 70 per cent of COVID hospital admissions and fatalities.
Traces of the virus detected in wastewater are at their highest level since June
Barwon Health’s Dr Akhtar Hussain told Geelong Broadcasters locals need to be aware of the transmission risk during the festive season.
“We should make sure whether we have any symptoms or not,” Dr Hussain said.
“If you have symptoms, whatever the infection, whether it’s COVID or flu, it’s better not to go to gatherings where you might infect others.”
Dr Hussain said it was still important to get booster shots when they fall due.
“Currently the recommendations from ATAGI (Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation) is to get a booster for anyone whose last shot was more than six months ago.
There are currently more than 1,400 active cases in Victoria.
23,000 Australians, including 8,539 Victorians, have died from COVID-19 since the virus was first detected in 2019.
