Photo: Noah Matteo | @noahmatteo

COVID-19

KEY MESSAGES

With the recent increases in COVID-19 cases, these six steps can help you stay ahead of COVID-19:

  • Wear a mask | A high-quality and well-fitted mask can protect you and others from the virus.

  • Get vaccinated | Stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine. There are new monovalent vaccines available that are highly effective at preventing severe disease. You should get a booster if you are over 75 and haven’t had one for 6 months. Other groups are also recommended to get a booster. Vaccines are available at your GP or local pharmacy.

  • Let fresh air in | Open windows and doors when you can – it reduces the spread of the virus. Meet outside when possible.

  • Get tested | if you have symptoms, take a rapid antigen test. If you test positive and are eligible for antivirals, take them as soon as possible.

  • Stay at home | If you have COVID-19, you should stay at home for at least five days and until you have no symptoms. Speak to your GP if symptoms worsen.

  • Take antivirals if eligible | If you are at risk of falling very sick, you may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral medicines. You must take these within 5 days of developing symptoms - the sooner the better. See your GP for more information.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

  • Department of Health

The Chief Health Officer (CHO) publishes health alerts and advisories to the Victorian public and the health sector on a needs basis. The latest health alerts are published chronologically. You can also filter the results to display health alerts and advisories in Victoria.

  • Emergency Recovery Victoria 

This web portal is designed to connect individuals, families, communities, businesses and regions to rebuild and recover after a disaster. Please refer to the website for up to date information on what is happening in Victoria.

  • Vic Emergency

This website provides information and updates on current emergency warnings and incidents across Victoria. It also provides more specific advice and resources in line with significant current events.

  • Victorian Government | Better Health Channel

This website provides COVID-19 guidelines and advice by category, as well as for specific groups.

OTHER RESOURCES

  • Closed by COVID-19 guidelines

Blue Shield Australia and AICCM  released a Closed by COVID-19 Guide, which was produced to provide guidance for people who are responsible for closing collections. This guide was published in April 2020 and should be considered in line with the current COVID-19 advice.

  • Epidemic/pandemic policy template

This template was developed by The Institute of Community Directors Australia.