Tasmania’s Covid risk reduced to low amid warning from Public Health

The Covid and respiratory infection risk level in Tasmania has been changed from moderate to low but Public Health warns people should still take measures to protect themselves.

Generic Covid vaccination photo

The Covid and respiratory infection risk level in Tasmania has been changed from moderate to low but Public Health warns people should still take measures to protect themselves.

The change comes after continuing low numbers of Covid cases and declining numbers of influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases across the community.

The latest Covid data showed the number of new Covid cases dropped to 282 last week and the number of hospital admissions was nine with one person in intensive care.

Since 2020 there have been 312 Tasmanians who died with Covid.

Director of Public Health Dr Mark Veitch said that a low risk level meant that cases of Covid, influenza and RSV per day in the community were decreasing or stable, and there are not as many serious respiratory infection cases in hospitals and aged care facilities.

However, he said Tasmanians should continue taking steps to protect themselves and each other.

“Viral respiratory infections occur with varying frequency throughout the year,” Dr Veitch said.

“Making simple safe behaviours part of our everyday routines can help protect ourselves and each other, regardless of the risk level.

“Protect yourself and your family by covering your coughs and sneezes, staying at home if you’re unwell, and seeking medical care if you need it.”

Dr Veitch said the COVID@homeplus team was still available to provide virtual care for all Tasmanians with Covid by calling 1800 671 738.

“They can also assist with higher risk people with flu-like symptoms, including referral for PCR testing and prescriptions of antiviral medication if you’re eligible,” he said.

“Immunisation and early treatment save lives.”

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation this month updated recommendations about booster doses of Covid vaccine for 2023.

All adults aged 75 years and older should receive an additional 2023 Covid booster if it has been more than six months since their last dose.

People aged 65 to 74 years, and adults younger than 65 years with severe immunocompromise should consider an additional Covid vaccine dose after discussion with their doctor.

ATAGI said Covid boosters and having a testing and treatment plan with your GP were particularly important for people aged 65 years or older or those at greater risk of severe illness.

Information about the 2023 vaccine booster and additional booster is available at https://www.health.gov.au/news/atagi-update-on-the-covid-19-vaccination-program.

Originally published as Tasmania’s Covid risk reduced to low amid warning from Public Health