COVID-19 Update (04 Oct 2021)

Dear Colleagues

It’s likely you’re already aware that Tasmania has recorded a case of COVID-19, in a Tasmanian resident who had returned from Victoria.

He travelled on Virgin Australia flight VA 1364, which arrived at Launceston Airport at around 11.30am on Friday, 1 October. You can read more about the case and requirements for close and casual contacts on the Tasmanian coronavirus website. As we have throughout the pandemic, Tasmania is taking a cautious approach.

I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge that many of our staff work out of hours to respond quickly when our circumstances change, as they have over this past weekend to respond to the positive case. I particularly thank our contact tracers, testers and border staff for their vital work.

I also want to emphasise the importance of vaccination as we work towards our State target of 90 per cent. If you have been waiting to book in to get vaccinated, please do not put if off any longer. Please vaccinate, not just for yourself, but for Tasmanians who are vulnerable and not able to. Vaccination bookings are available now through the COVID-19 website.

While vaccination is an incredibly important measure in our response, it does not replace the suite of things we all need to continue to do for the safety of ourselves and others. As we prepare for the summer season and welcome more visitors to our State, these measures are our best line of defence:

• Stay at least 1.5 metres away from others;
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water;
• Stay at home if you are unwell;
• Get tested for COVID-19 if you have any cold or flu-like symptoms; and
• Be aware of, and follow, current gathering, business and travel restrictions.

For up-to-date information please visit the Tasmanian coronavirus website.

Best wishes