STAY vigilant - that's the advice for older Australians as the fight to contain the spread of COVID-19 continues.
Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck said vulnerable and older members of every community remained a priority as both federal and state governments navigated the challenges of the pandemic.
While the easing of restrictions across most States and Territories means those aged over 65 can start re-engaging in community, senior Victorians should closely follow advice as authorities work to contain emerging clusters.
There remains a substantial increase in risk of severe COVID-19 illness in people aged over 70.
"We are not through the woods yet but support measures are in place to ensure senior Australians across the country get the support they need," Mr Colbeck said.
"We continue to monitor the situation in Victoria and will offer advice as both tiers of government work together to stop the spread and save lives."
He said elsewhere the stable low number of cases of COVID-19 has permitted progressive relaxation of travel and other distancing restrictions.
"The risk of becoming infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 depends on the chance of being close to someone with COVID-19 or coming into contact with surfaces contaminated by the virus," Mr Colbeck said.
"Because of this, the local pattern of disease is the most important determinant of risk of contracting COVID-19 illness in any community. If there are no cases or a low number of cases and no evidence of community transmission, then the risk of exposure is low - regardless of age or health conditions."
Mr Colbeck said in areas outside Victoria, residents previously categorized as at higher risk of becoming ill could return to work and recreation activity provided they followed precautions.
"It is essential that people stay up to date," Mr Colbeck said. "And, if case numbers do increase, like the recent increase we've seen in some areas of Victoria, everyone needs to take personal responsibility for their activities, interactions and to consider how these might affect their exposure to COVID-19.
"Each person has a personal responsibility to protect themselves, to protect loved ones and the wider community."
"Travel to areas with higher case numbers, or going to events with people from areas with higher case numbers, may increase the risk of contracting COVID-19, and people need to carefully consider this."
The new Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line for older Australians is available Monday to Friday, except public holidays from 8.30am to 6pm on 1800-171-866.
"Each person has a personal responsibility to protect themselves, to protect loved ones and the wider community."
- Richard Colbeck
My Aged Care can be contacted by phone on 1800-200-422 from Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm.
The latest Australian Health Protection Principal Committee advice for vulnerable Australians can be found here