The State Government recently announced changes to the pandemic orders, with the aim of reducing the spread of COVID-19 and the impact of new subvariants.

These are proactive steps to help Victorians keep themselves, their loved ones, and the community safe and healthy, particularly this winter.

The changes came into effect at 11.59pm, Tuesday 17 July 2022.

For the full range of COVIDSafe settings, visit the Victorian Government’s website.

Recent cases and immunity periods

The period when someone is considered a recently confirmed case, and therefore exempt from testing and isolation or quarantine requirements, has been revised to four weeks (down from 12 weeks).

This means if you have symptoms four weeks after your isolation period ends, please test, and stay home if you’re feeling unwell.

Vaccination

Everyone is encouraged to remain up to date with vaccinations to protect themselves, their loved ones and the community. This includes your latest round of COVID-19 vaccination and flu shot. Additionally:

• Adults aged 50 to 64 years are recommended to receive a winter booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
• The winter booster dose is also available for adults aged 30 to 49 years.
• You’re now able to receive the winter booster dose 3 months after your third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
• To save time, you can book your flu shot and latest dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.

Book now through your local doctor or pharmacy.

Isolating as a positive case

Positive cases are still required to isolate for seven days from the day they tested positive, but an additional reason to leave home during this period has been added.

If required, a positive case can provide transport for a household member to:

• to attend work or school
• go to a health appointment
• get food or essential supplies

The positive case will need to remain in the car and always wear a mask.

Other reasons you can leave home during isolation are:

•  to get tested
• to get medical care or medical supplies
• if there is an emergency such as fire or flood
• to escape the risk of harm including family violence

During this time, it’s important to take steps to keep your family safe and healthy. The Victorian Government recommends:

• testing regularly if you’re feeling unwell with COVID-19 symptoms
• staying home if you’re feeling unwell
• wearing a mask in crowded settings or indoors
• working from home if possible

For the full list of recommendations and more information, visit the Victorian Government’s website.