COVID case numbers and hospitalisations are once more on the rise across Australia, Emma Davidson, ACT Minister for Population Health says, and she reminds the community to stay vigilant and COVID smart.

There were 139 new cases of COVID in the week of 12 to 18 January, and 23 people in hospital have COVID, according to ACT Government statistics.

“Community transmission of COVID-19 is here to stay, and we expect to see rises and falls in case numbers as Canberrans return to school and work due to emerging variants, waning immunity, and social behaviour,” Ms Davidson said.

“While the cases of COVID-19 in the ACT have been decreasing since a peak of cases in mid-November, we have seen increases in parts of the country. We know some people are impacted by COVID-19 more than others, so stay kind to one another, and be caring to the concerns and needs of others by continuing to practice COVID Smart behaviours.

“Viruses can cause complications for anyone. If you are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses, though, speak to your regular health care provider about what to do if you become unwell, including how to access testing and treatments.”

COVID Smart behaviours reduce the risk of catching and spreading COVID-19 and other infectious respiratory viruses, like influenza, Ms Davidson said.

Staying COVID Smart includes:

• Stay up to date with vaccinations. Vaccination remains the best protection from serious illness and hospitalisation, Ms Davidson said.
• Stay home if you’re unwell. You can use a rapid antigen test (RAT) for COVID-19. Even if the test is negative, remain at home until you feel better.
• Wearing a mask when entering public indoor settings or where it is difficult to maintain physical distancing.
• Practising good hand hygiene.

Until the end of January, anyone in the ACT can collect free rapid antigen tests (RATs) from Libraries ACT locations and Access Canberra service centres after a transaction.

They are also available at Canberra Health Services facilities, including hospitals, Walk-in Centres, and health centres, where visitors are encouraged to do a RAT before entering.

Canberrans are encouraged to collect RATS before they become unwell, and before the ACT Government’s free RAT program comes to an end.

The ACT Government is monitoring and assessing the situation of COVID-19, and will adapt their response as required, Ms Davidson said.