Covid hospitalisations surge in Western Australia ahead of Christmas

In Western Australia, an alarming increase in COVID-19 cases has prompted officials to issue warnings as the Christmas holiday approaches. The Department of Health reported that hospitalisations from the virus escalated to an average of 75 patients daily, reflecting a stark rise from 50 in October. This uptick has been attributed to increasing community transmission since mid-October, identifiable through wastewater surveillance and reported case data. Those experiencing flu-like symptoms are urged to self-isolate to mitigate the spread, especially during the festive season when gatherings are expected to increase. Dr. Paul Armstrong, the Director of Communicable Diseases, emphasized the risks associated with socializing during this time, noting that infections can spread more easily as people gather with family and friends. His recommendations include staying home when unwell, frequently sanitizing hands, and being cautious in crowded settings. Additionally, the recent release of the new COVID-19 booster vaccine, designed to target emerging Omicron subvariants, encourages residents to update their vaccinations prior to holiday gatherings. The public health advisory highlights that those most vulnerable to severe illness from the virus include older adults and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Health authorities stress the importance of vaccination, noting that the newly developed Pfizer JN.1 vaccine is aimed at providing greater protection against the current circulating strains. While children between 5 and 17 are not recommended to take the booster, severely immunocompromised individuals are advised to do so. The federal government promotes booster vaccinations for adults over the age of 75 every six months and recommends similar timing for those aged 65 to 74. Despite the presence of new COVID-19 variants, individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant about their health during this busy time of year, as seemingly minor cases can escalate into long COVID, emphasizing ongoing concerns about public health in light of the pandemic's persistency.