The duration of the COVID-19 reinfection period has been slashed from 12 weeks to just four, the state government has announced.
On Friday, The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) said that COVID reinfections can occur within 28 days, prompting it to recommend that the reinfection period be reduced.
In a statement on Tuesday, the state government said that as of 11.59pm on Tuesday, the period when someone is considered a recently confirmed case (and therefore exempt from testing and isolation/quarantine requirements) has been revised to four weeks, down from 12 weeks.
“This reflects the emerging evidence that new variants of COVID-19 can evade prior immunity gained from infection,” the government said.
“Positive cases are still required to isolate for seven days from the day they took their test but an additional reason
to leave home has been added – to provide transport for a household member to obtain food, if essential. The
infected person will need to remain in the car and wear a face covering at all times.”
The government has also recommended mask wearing in indoor and crowded settings, however there will not be any changes to current face mask requirements.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas has also requested employers consider working from home arrangements that are most appropriate for their workplace and employees based on individual requirements.
The government also announce another round of its Small Business Ventilation Grant Program to help businesses invest in equipment that will keep their workers and customers safe in indoor settings, and has launched a ‘Stay Well in Winter’ campaign to boost public health messaging.
“As we’re seeing across the globe and around Australia, winter means more time inside where COVID-19 and the flu can spread. It also means our nurses, ambos and doctors have never worked harder, and we can’t thank them enough,” Ms Thomas said.
“We are working with business and community leaders to ensure advice and information is provided to the wider community – to help all Victorians stay well this winter.
“Wearing a mask, getting up to date with your vaccinations and ensuring indoor areas are well ventilated are small but effective steps Victorians and businesses can take to manage their own COVID-19 risk this winter.”
