The battle against COVID-19 is not over, even if it’s in the news less these days. And now health authorities have expressed concern that it may be spreading once more, putting seniors in particular at risk.
Queensland Health chief health officer Dr John Gerrard said the recent rise in cases was largely due to low booster rates in older Queenslanders and possibly the emergence of the new BA.2.86 variant, known also as Pirola.
The low booster rates are a serious concern and authorities have called for Queenslanders aged 65 and older to make sure they are up-to-date with their booster shot.
Dr Gerrard said Queenslanders who were older or who had medical comorbidities that put them at higher risk should get a booster vaccine shot if they had not had one in 2023.
“We are seeing a clear increase in COVID-19 transmission in Queensland at the moment,” he said.
“Now is a good time to get a COVID-19 booster if you are aged 65 or over and haven’t had one in 2023.
“This is even more important for people over 75 years if it has been more than six months since your last dose.”
Dr Gerrard said it was essential Queenslanders did not become complacent about the risk of COVID-19.
“COVID-19 has not established a predictable seasonal pattern as yet and it continues to mutate, which is why we all need to be vigilant,” he said.
“Vaccination remains our best protection against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
“In addition to getting vaccinated, Queenslanders need to stay home when sick and regularly wash their hands to minimise the spread of COVID-19.”
You can find a vaccination location by going to qld.gov.au.
