COVID-19 Update (27 Apr 2022)

Dear Colleagues,

The Premier has today announced changes to requirements for close contacts of a confirmed COVID-19 case.

Changes to close contact quarantine

Close contacts of COVID-19 cases will not be required to quarantine from 12.01am Monday, 2 May 2022, on the condition that some precautions are taken to limit potential spread if they develop COVID-19. Close contacts can leave home if they have no symptoms and return a negative test when notified they are a close contact. They must do the following for seven days:

• test for COVID-19, daily if they plan to leave home
• wear a face mask in all indoor settings when outside the home
• not attend high-risk settings, unless as a critical worker and an exemption is in place
• inform their workplace that they are a close contact

It is also recommended that close contacts:

• work from home where possible, if your manager is supportive, given your workplace and the work that you do
• avoid large gatherings and social events
• avoid contact with people at risk of severe disease including elderly, immunocompromised and those with chronic conditions
• maintain all COVID-safe behaviours.

If you are a close contact, you will not be able to work if providing in-home or community aged care services, unless you are granted an exemption as a critical worker.

Anyone who is in quarantine when the rule change takes place on Monday, 2 May can leave, but must meet the above requirements for the remainder of their seven days.

You can read more information here: https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/important-community-updates/changes-to-close-contact-quarantine-and-checking-in-from-2-may/_nocache

People who test positive for COVID-19 beyond 12.01am Monday, 2 May 2022 will still need to isolate for at least seven days.

COVID-19 Risk Assessments

Importantly, your Agency will now consider its COVID-19 Risk Assessment, based on this change, and you will receive further information from your Head of Agency on this.

Check-in TAS App

Use of the Check-in TAS app will no longer be required in any setting, but there will be screening requirements in health settings.

Living with COVID

Please remember every State Servant, and their families, can access the EAP as a totally confidential and free advice and counselling service. You can also reach out to Lifeline (13 11 14) or any other service that provides support and counselling if you’re experiencing stress or concern about living with COVID-19.

If you’re due for your booster vaccination and haven’t yet booked in, please make an appointment as soon as you can. More information is available here: https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/vaccination-information/covid-19-vaccination. And with the colder months nearly upon us, don’t forget to get your flu vaccine as well,  which you can get from GPs and pharmacies, particularly those with younger children who have not experienced a flu season.

Finally, https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/ is always the best place for all Tasmanians to find timely, accurate information on COVID-19.

Best wishes