VICTORIANS are being reminded to take steps to protect themselves and their community from COVID-19 this summer, as COVID-19 infections increase across the state.
The latest Victorian COVID-19 Surveillance Report, ending November 26, shows a significant increase in the number of people in hospital with COVID-19, with the seven-day average now at 197 – a 59 per cent increase compared to the same period last month.
The number of cases notified to the department has also increased in recent weeks, up 44 per cent in the past month.
Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker urged people in the community to take steps to protect themselves and those around them, particularly those at higher risk.
“It’s the simple things that can have a big impact: if you’re feeling sick, please stay home,” she said.
“If you need to go out, or you’re visiting a higher risk setting like an age care home or a hospital, it’s a good idea to wear a mask.”
Dr Looker said it was still important for Victorians to stay up to date with their recommended COVID-19 vaccinations.
“Immunity wanes over time so staying up to date with your vaccinations will be your best protection against severe illness.”
Dr Looker said JN.1 remained the dominant COVID-19 variant in the community.
“There is no indication of increasing severity of the currently circulating subvariants.”
Dr Looker encouraged people, particularly those at higher risk, to speak to their GP and have a plan in place for getting treatment if they get sick, including the use of antiviral treatments.
Victorian health services are well prepared and well equipped to handle these escalations, which often occur at this time of year. The Department, together with health services, will continue to monitor the situation as it progresses.
