Best ways to reduce your Covid risk this summer

With summer on our doorstep, Australia is in the midst of a fourth wave of Covid 19 infections. Here’s what to expect and how to stay safe during the holidays.

While many Australians have become a little indifferent towards Covid 19, cases around the country are spiking as a fourth wave of the virus sets in – reminding us the pandemic is far from over.

No one wants their summer holidays impacted by illness, so here’s what to expect from the latest wave and how to best protect yourself and your family. 

How long will the fourth wave of Covid last?

While it’s impossible to predict how long the next wave will be, data from countries like Singapore, give experts hope the experience may be similar in Australia.

Singapore experienced a short, sharp wave fourth wave that peaked around mid-October before cases dropped to pre-wave levels by early November.

Deakin University epidemiologist Dr Hassan Vally says Australians can be “cautiously optimistic”, as each incoming wave has less impact than the one before. 

“The optimistic take is that we’re going to get this shorter, sharper wave,” Dr Vally says. 

At the same time, he says we should never get too confident about Covid. 

“Every time we think we have a handle on it, there’s something around the corner.”

Still, if we are smart about our actions, Dr Vally says he expects cases will be “on the decline by the time we reach Christmas.” 

What do I need to know about the latest variant?

According to Dr Vally, we’re in the middle of a “variant soup”. 

This essentially means that descendants of the Omicron variant are blending together to make a mixture of mutations. 

This isn’t too concerning, says Dr Vally, but he warns we need to stay vigilant to prevent the spread and decrease waning immunity.

“Living with Covid doesn’t mean giving up,” Director of Infectious Diseases at the University of Queensland Dr Paul Griffin says. 

“This is the new normal.” 

Best ways to protect yourself against Covid

Do I need to get a booster? 

Short answer: yes. 

Getting vaccinated may not stop the spread of the virus, but it does decrease your chances of being hospitalised. 

“Vaccination is the best thing we can do right now to prevent us against severe disease, hospitalisation and death,” chief health officer at Moderna, Dr Paul Burton says. 

Australians aged 16 and older who have completed their primary vaccine dose more than three months ago are eligible for a booster

Those aged 5-15 with special health needs may also receive one. 

If you’ve had Covid, it is recommended you wait three months before getting another vaccination against the virus. 

Do I need to wear a mask? 

While guidelines vary slightly from state to state, in general masks are only recommended in high-risk settings such as public transport, health care environments, or a large crowd. 

“Masks are just a visible barrier in front of your face,” Dr Vally says. 

While N95 masks are more effective than surgical masks, Dr Vally says “any mask is better than no mask.” 

Check your state government health recommendations for further details of the rules where you live. 

Tips to reduce your risk of getting sick

To minimise the impact of the incoming wave this summer, the following actions can help stop the spread of Covid: 

  • Getting your Covid-19 booster (if available for you)
  • Continue to test if you have symptoms (even if they’re mild)
  • Socially distance yourself where possible and limit contact with large crowds
  • Wear a mask in high-risk settings
  • Socialise outside where possible
  • Work from home if you can
  • Stay home if you feel sick

 

Written by Alexandra Feiam.

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