12 July 2022
As at Monday, 11 July 2022, health authorities advise the City of Greater Bendigo had 1,359 active cases of COVID-19 and the daily infection rate hovers around 200 new cases. The incidence of cases has remained constant over the last two months but may rise in coming weeks.
The risk of catching the virus, particularly one of the serious Omicron variations, is very high and of concern for our Committee of Management, which is constantly reviewing the situation.
Since the relaxation of Public Health Orders, it is more important than ever we take appropriate action to protect ourselves, our families and those we come into contact, particularly those who may be more susceptible due to their health or age.
The Committee is mindful of its Duty of Care for U3A Bendigo members, particularly so, as we are in the vulnerable age range. Some of our U3A members who have had, or currently have COVID are experiencing a significant impact on their health and wellbeing. Committee members are very concerned for them and ask that all members remain diligent in observing practical precautions to minimise the ongoing effects of contracting COVID.
IF YOU HAVE TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID, YOU NEED TO DO THE FOLLOWING:
- If your positive result is from a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) you must report this information to 1800 675 398. If your positive result is from a PCR test, your information is already in the system.
- You must isolate for 7 full days, and please let your Convenor know.
- Your household contacts do not necessarily need to isolate for 7 days, however they will be need to test themselves for 5 of the 7 days post contact.
If someone who has COVID informs you that you are a social contact, this means that you spent time with a confirmed case while they were infectious.
- Please get tested and monitor your situation carefully.
- Please also let your Convenor know if you have been a close contact.
CONVENORS – YOUR ROLE IN MANAGING A COVID NOTIFICATION IS AS FOLLOWS:
- Should a member of your group test positive, you need to be alert and take action
- Inform members of your group immediately, so that they can make an informed decision about what actions they may need to take. Symptoms or no symptoms – see above
- Discuss your actions with Leader Member Services – Ian Burdett, or our Health and Wellbeing Officer – Christine Haddrick
MAINTAINING EFFORTS TO MINIMISE TRANSMISSION OF COVID INFECTIONS
Be aware aerosol transmission of the virus can occur when droplets are projected into the air. Extra care must be taken by increasing ventilation and social distancing where-ever possible or by wearing a face mask.
While wearing a properly fitted face mask is not compulsory, it is one of the best ways to minimise exposure and for reducing transmission of the virus.
U3A Bendigo members are encouraged to isolate for 7 seven days and take a mini break from classes if advised that they are a possible close contact. Some members have tested positive 6 days after contact at a family event. Please respond appropriately and consider others in your response to being a possible close contact.
WINTER IS UPON US
Health authorities continue to advise there is likely to be an increase of COVID and flu infections for the rest of Winter and strongly recommend we keep our COVID and Flu vaccinations up to date.