Australian Greens: Supporting high-risk Canberrans as COVID-19 restrictions ease

The ACT Government is continuing to support those at greatest of risk severe outcomes from COVID-19 as restrictions ease.

Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said continuing to support at-risk Canberrans was a priority.

“As mandatory isolation for COVID-19 comes to an end, the ACT Government understands that some people are feeling anxious about the changes.

“Our very high vaccination rates and good access to effective anti-viral medications provide protection for individuals against becoming seriously ill and put us in a strong position to manage COVID-19 and its impacts.

“However, Canberrans should still take measures to protect those at risk of poor outcomes from COVID-19. Anyone with cold or flu symptoms should stay home and get tested for COVID-19. Positive Rapid Antigen Test results still need to be reported to ACT Health so that further advice and support can be provided.

“If you are unwell or test positive, do not visit people at high risk of severe illness, including anyone in hospital or an aged care or disability care facility, for at least seven days after a positive COVID-19 test.

“If it is absolutely necessary to visit these facilities, people should seek advice from the facility in the first instance. Face masks also continue to be mandatory in these settings,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.

Minister for Disability and Minister for Veterans and Seniors Emma Davison said the ACT Government will continue to provide services and support for Canberrans most at risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

This includes:

• Linking people to appropriate services to provide them with the care they need including COVID-19 specific treatments
• Providing accessible information about COVID-19
• Providing accessible COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations for people with disability, mental health conditions and their carers
• Providing free PCR tests and RATs at ACT Government COVID-19 testing centres and free RATs for eligible concession card holders at ACT Libraries
• Continuing to provide advice and support to disability and in home aged care providers to ensure COVID-safe care delivery

“For people with disability, older Canberrans, and carers, COVID is not over. Their safety must be the single most important thing we are all thinking of as mandates end and restrictions ease,” Minister Davidson said.

“We all have a role to protect ourselves and those at a higher risk in the community as COVID-19 continues to spread. Please practise COVID-smart habits such as washing and sanitising your hands, staying home if feeling unwell and maintaining physical distance where possible. Everyone has a part to play to reduce spread across the community.

“If you are at risk of severe illness from COVID-19, I encourage you to speak to your GP or regular specialist doctor on know what to do if you become unwell. They will help you prepare for any extra care and support you need, including access to antiviral medications.”

For further information on support for at-risk community groups refer to COVID-19 website at: https://www.covid19.act.gov.au/services-and-support