The Victorian Government have made some changes following a 53% increase in COVID-19 cases in the past two weeks.
Over the last couple weeks, you might have noticed an increase in COVID-19 cases across the state. Perhaps that friend who had miraculously avoided the spicy cough this whole time copped it, or you’re work pal tested positive for the second time this year.
With Covid cases surging – a 53 per cent increase in COVID-19 cases in the last two weeks – the Victorian Government has made some changes to public health recommendations and to testing and isolation requirements for those who have recovered from Covid-19.
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Coming into effect from 11:59pm tonight (Tuesday, July 11), if you’re re-exposed to a positive case after your isolation period ends, you are now only exempt from testing and isolating for four weeks – reduced from the previous 12 weeks.
The gov says this new rule reflects the emerging evidence that new variants of COVID-19 can evade prior immunity gained from infection – meaning you actually can catch covid-19 again a lot sooner than originally thought.
Positive cases are still required to isolate for seven days from the day they took their test but an additional reason to leave home has been added – to provide transport for a household member to obtain food, if essential. The infected person will need to remain in the car and wear a face covering at all times.
Mask wearing in indoor and crowded settings is strongly recommended to protect yourself and our most vulnerable Victorians through winter – but there will not be any changes to current face mask requirements with these new pandemic orders.
So far avoided the Spicy Cough? Here’s your guide to preparing for COVID
“As we’re seeing across the globe and around Australia, winter means more time inside where COVID-19 and the flu can spread. It also means our nurses, ambos and doctors have never worked harder, and we can’t thank them enough,” says Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas.
“We are working with business and community leaders to ensure advice and information is provided to the wider community – to help all Victorians stay well this winter.”
“Wearing a mask, getting up to date with your vaccinations and ensuring indoor areas are well ventilated are small but effective steps Victorians and businesses can take to manage their own COVID-19 risk this winter.”
For more information about how to fight COVID-19 and stay well this winter visit .
