New variants arriving during the colder months, and at the same time as the flu, are expected to further strain the state’s health system.
The BA.5 variant is up to 25 per cent more transmissible than earlier strains of Omicron and is able to evade immunity more easily, which means people who are vaccinated or recovering from a previous strain are more likely to be able to catch it.
Over 30s were made eligible for their fourth dose from Monday, July 11 following ATAGI advice made last week.
Goulburn Local Public Health Unit acting clinical director Dr William Cross said the number of cases in the region, and across the state, was expected to rise over July and August.
He said the increase might not be reflected in case numbers, with fewer and fewer people lodging their tests.
“People may, however, notice more frequent outbreaks in their schools and workplaces. People may also find that the wait times for accessing healthcare are longer, as GPs and emergency departments experience a greater demand,” Dr Cross said.
Coronavirus case numbers are rising alongside flu numbers, and Dr Cross said the risk of catching respiratory diseases would be “extremely high” due to the large number of cases in the community and increased infectiousness of new variants.
"It is advisable for people to avoid crowded settings wherever possible, such as waiting outside for takeaway food,“ Dr Cross said.
“When it is necessary to enter a crowded setting, it is advisable to wear a face mask to protect yourself and others. Regular hand-washing with soap and warm water is also advised, particularly after being in public places.
“People should remain at home if they have any new symptoms of respiratory illness such as sore throat, cough, runny nose or sneezing – this is important even if you have tested negative to COVID-19, as other respiratory illnesses such as influenza are also currently common in the community and may also cause some people to become very unwell.”
He urged people to keep their vaccinations up to date, with GP clinics, pharmacies and the GV Health vaccination hub at the McIntosh Centre offering shots.
Dr Cross said vaccination was the best way to ensure fewer people ended up needing medical assistance.
“GV Health has seen an increasing number of people presenting to the emergency department and being admitting to the hospital as a result of respiratory illness over the recent months,” he said.
“Every member of the community can help our hospital through this time by taking measures to protect themselves and the community from the spread of COVID-19 and the risk of serious COVID-19 infection.”
On Tuesday Victorian Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the Victorian government would be launching a new advertising campaign encouraging people to stay well in winter, but said no new restrictions would be added.
The official advice for when someone can be reinfected has also been slashed from 12 weeks to four weeks following the emergence of the BA5 variant.
Meanwhile, COVID-19 antivirals will be easier to access across the country after eligibility was expanded under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme on Sunday to include all patients over the age of 70.
