ACT Health reassures citizens that the nation’s capital is mostly unscathed while the most recent waves of COVID-19 ravage Victoria and New South Wales (NSW).
However, a notable shift in strategy has emerged, with ACT Health no longer measuring the prevalence of the virus in the community. Instead, the focus has pivoted towards severe cases and those requiring hospitalization.
The current surge in NSW and Victoria is attributed to the EG.5 and the emerging JN.1 variant, resulting in the highest levels of COVID-19 cases in a year.
In NSW alone, approximately 1400 individuals are seeking emergency care for the virus each week, with around 400 being admitted to hospitals. Both states are issuing warnings, urging people to take precautions and advising those infected to stay home.
Of particular concern is the JN.1 variant, known for its enhanced ability to evade the immune system. Despite this, it appears to be no more severe than other variants.
Overview of COVID-19 Situation in the ACT
The ACT Government acknowledges the presence of COVID-19 in the community, but notifications have decreased since a peak in mid-November 2023. Hospital admissions have remained low and stable, with 20 individuals hospitalized, including two in the ICU, during the week of December 29 to January 4.
Changes in reporting methods have affected the data, with only PCR tests contributing to the 120 new cases reported during this period. The ACT Health spokesperson emphasizes the shift in focus towards the severity of illness, hospital admissions, and the overall impact on the health system.
Since December 22, reporting positive Rapid Antigen Test results to ACT Health is no longer possible, requiring individuals to obtain a pathology referral form for a PCR test. Free RATs will cease to be available at the end of January.
Despite these changes, the government encourages residents, especially those traveling interstate, to adopt precautionary measures such as staying updated with vaccinations, staying home when unwell, wearing masks in indoor or crowded settings, and practicing hand hygiene.
ACT Health is closely monitoring the situation, adapting its response as needed, and has not identified an increase in other respiratory viruses in the region. As of October 20, 2023, COVID-19 is no longer considered a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance.
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