COVID-19 booster doses are recommended for everyone 16 years and older who had their last dose of a primary course at least three months ago. Photo: Milan Markovic.
As the state approaches its third wave of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, NSW Health is urging the community to practise COVID-safe behaviours and ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations.
While Omicron BA.2 remains the dominant sub-variant in NSW, BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants are expected to overtake in the coming weeks.
The rise in the sub-variants is likely associated with the increase in COVID-19 cases including increasing reinfections.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the state is just at the beginning of the third wave, which is likely to peak in late July or early August.
“The increase in community transmission brings with it greatly increased risks for those not up to date with their vaccines,” Mr Hazzard said.
NSW Chief Health Officer Doctor Kerry Chant said everyone needs to do all they can to limit the spread of COVID-19 and protect the community’s most vulnerable members.
“There is no evidence yet of a difference in disease severity for those infected with BA.4 and BA.5, but there is evidence that they are better at evading the body’s immunity,” Dr Chant said.
“Any potential increase in infections will depend on a combination of factors, including immunity levels in the population and behavioural factors, so it is vital that anyone who is eligible for a booster dose who hasn’t yet received it does so as soon as possible.
“We all have a role to play in reducing the spread and burden of respiratory infections this winter and protecting our most vulnerable so I strongly encourage everyone to keep doing the little things that make a big difference, such as staying home when you are sick, washing your hands regularly and indoor mask-wearing.”
People are urged to book their boosters and wear face masks in public indoor spaces where physical distancing cannot be maintained.
According to data from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, fully vaccinated have 65 per cent greater protection against hospitalisation or death from Omicron than two vaccine doses alone.
Dr Chant said the new wave would hit businesses and schools hard just like it did with Omicron BA.1 if the community does not pull together as one again.
The health officer said before people test positive for COVID-19 they should be aware if they are eligible for antiviral medications.
Elderly people and those with underlying health conditions are reminded to speak to their GP or health professional about antiviral medications if they contract COVID-19.
Antivirals work best when taken within five days from the onset of symptoms.
Community members are advised to;
- Stay home if unwell, take a COVID-19 test straight away and self-isolate
- Wear a mask indoors or wherever physical distance is not possible
- Get together outdoors or in large, well-ventilated spaces with open doors and windows
- Practise good hygiene by washing or sanitising hands
- Take a rapid antigen test to test for COVID-19 before visiting vulnerable loved ones or going to large gatherings and events
- Stay up to date with vaccinations – for both flu and COVID-19
COVID-19 booster doses are recommended for anyone 16 years and older who had their last dose of a primary course at least three months ago.
To find your nearest vaccination clinic, visit the NSW Health vaccination clinics finder.
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