- NSW is continuing to experience elevated levels of transmission of respiratory viral infections, including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
- Everyone in NSW is being urged to ensure they are up to date with their recommended influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations to protect themselves from serious illness in the lead up to winter.
- There is plenty of stock of COVID-19 and influenza vaccines available at pharmacies and GPs, so please book in today.
- COVID-19 PCR testing in NSW has recently changed. Most people who have COVID-19 symptoms can use a rapid antigen test (RAT).
- Free RATs are now accessible to the community via some local councils, ServiceNSW and NSW Health services.
- Find a free RAT near you on the NSW Government website.
- If your doctor recommends a COVID-19 PCR test, they will give you a pathology referral form for a free COVID-19 PCR test.
- If you are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, contact your doctor for testing advice. If you can’t contact your doctor, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or use the online Service Finder to find a GP near you.
- If English is not your main language and you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450 and ask to be transferred to healthdirect on 1800 022 222
- If your doctor recommends a COVID-19 PCR test, they will give you a pathology referral form for a free COVID-19 PCR test.
- COVID-19 is circulating widely in the community. To protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Stay up to date with your vaccinations. For people considered higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, a 2023 COVID-19 booster is recommended if your last COVID-19 vaccine dose or confirmed infection (whichever is the most recent) was 6 months ago or more.
- Stay home if you have cold or flu symptoms and get tested.
- Wear a mask in crowded, indoor places.
- Talk with your doctor now if you are at higher risk of severe illness. You may be eligible for antiviral medicines.
- Don’t visit people who are at higher risk of severe illness if you have symptoms or COVID-19.