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Tasmanians are urged to prepare, plan and protect themselves and their families this winter from severe illness caused by acute respiratory infections such as Influenza, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Specialist Medical Advisor, Dr Shannon Melody said with respiratory infections expected to increase across the State in the coming months, there are simple actions Tasmanians can take to protect themselves.
“As is the case each year, we expect increases in common respiratory infections through the colder months, so it’s important to take action now to protect yourself and your family this winter,” Dr Melody said.
“The best thing you can do to prepare is stay up to date with seasonal vaccinations, as this remains the best defence against serious illness from COVID-19, influenza and RSV.
“Everyone aged six months and older is recommended to receive an annual flu vaccine - this is particularly important for certain groups at higher risk of serious illness from flu.
“All adults are eligible for a COVID-19 booster at least every 12 months, and older adults or those with severe immunocompromise every six months. A vaccine is also now available and recommended for older individuals to protect against severe illness from RSV.
“You can receive annual flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines from your GP and most local pharmacies.
“People at higher risk of severe illness should also make a plan with their GP about testing and access to antiviral medications if they test positive to COVID-19.
“Tasmanians should also keep up the simple behaviours such as staying home if you are unwell, and regularly washing or sanitising your hands.”
The successful COVID@homeplus program will also be rebranded to Care@home, which better recognises it now provides care to Tasmanians with a range of acute respiratory infections, not just COVID-19.
Since being established in December 2021, over 45,000 Tasmanians who tested positive for acute respiratory illnesses have enrolled in the virtual care service.
Tasmanians can continue to enrol in Care@home by calling the care team on 1800 973 363.
Deputy Secretary for Community, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Dale Webster said the hospital and health system had applied learnings from previous years and was prepared to manage expected peaks in demand caused by acute respiratory infections.
“While our primary care sector will be the first point of call for Tasmanians with acute respiratory infections, our public hospital system are prepared to maintain capacity and manage increases in activity during the winter months,” Mr Webster said.
“Tasmanians can help ease demand this winter by being prepared and making sure they are up to date with their vaccinations, and by continuing the safe behaviours that have served us well in recent years, such as staying at home if you’re unwell.
“The Care@home program will also continue to play an important role for our health system by providing virtual care where appropriate to Tasmanians at higher risk of severe illness from acute respiratory infections.”
For more information about staying well this winter, visit www.health.tas.gov.au