THE spread of new COVID 19 variant JN.1 has renewed calls from the State Government for community members to take steps to reduce the danger for at-risk demographics. Victorian chief health officer Clare Looker has issued a health alert formally urging Victorians to wear a face mask if experiencing COVID symptoms or visiting high-risk settings, following a spike in JN.1-related hospitalisations in recent weeks. According to Ms Looker, the current seven-day average hospitalisation figure of 377 had increased in recent weeks in the wake of high levels of COVID-19 hospitalisations in November, however, was yet to reach the peak (488) experienced during last year’s May and June wave. She said the variant had been causing similar impacts internationally, and had quickly become the most prevalent single sub-variant identified in wastewater samples across the state. “If you have symptoms, you should not visit people at risk of severe illness or sensitive settings such as hospitals and aged care facilities,” Ms Looker said in a statement. “Sectors providing housing, care, or other services to people at increased risk of severe disease (senior Victorians, those with medical comorbities or disability) should consider activating policies to reduce transmission during this wave. “This is particularly relevant to health services (including primary care), aged care, disability care and Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisations. “These actions may include the use of N-95 masks in clinical care settings and use of recommended surveillance testing for patients, staff and/or visitors.” Those with increased risk of severe disease are also urged to seek a COVID-19 booster vaccination, let fresh air in and meet outside where possible, take a rapid antigen test (RAT) and if positive, take antiviral medication if eligible.
