Rise in Victoria COVID-19, flu and RSV cases as winter approaches

Rise in Victoria COVID-19, flu and RSV cases as winter approaches

Victoria is experiencing an increase in COVID-19, influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases as the state heads into winter.

Hospitalisations for people with COVID-19 have increased by 30 per cent in the last week, prompting a warning from authorities.

Wastewater testing is also showing high levels of COVID-19 across the state.

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Notifications of the flu and RSV have also increased by 30 per cent.

The latest NSW respiratory surveillance report is showing low reports for COVID-19 and influenza but high activity for RSV.

COVID-19 notifications also remain low in each state.

Chief Health Officer Clare Looker has issued a warning for Victorians to take steps to protect themselves, and vulnerable community members, from the illnesses.

The steps include wearing a mask, getting vaccinated for COVID-19, letting fresh air indoors, taking RAT tests for COVID-19, staying at home if you have symptoms and taking antiviral tablets if you are eligible.

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“If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, you should not visit people at risk of severe illness or sensitive settings such as hospitals and aged care facilities,” Looker said in a statement.

Those in health services are advised to use N95 masks and test patients, staff and visitors.

COVID-19 symptoms remain the same as they were in the pandemic with a runny nose, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills and/or sweats being the indications.

For more information you can read the Victorian health alert here.

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