COVID-19 case recorded in Lara

A NEW COVID-19 case has been recorded in Lara today (Tuesday, August 10) but the person has been self-isolating for their infectious period.

According to a statement issued by Professor Eugene Athan, director of the Barwon South West (BSW) Public Health Unit, the person is isolating at home in Lara.

“The case has been linked to the outbreak in Melbourne.

“There are no local exposure sites linked to this case.”

He said the BSW Public Health Unit was supporting metropolitan Melbourne areas with contact tracing and exposure site management.

“The number of people seeking COVID-19 testing locally has increased and there is an ability to expand testing capacity and opening times if required.

“We would like to remind the Geelong community to remain vigilant and get tested at the first sign of COVID-19 symptoms, however mild.

“We also ask everyone to regularly check the Department of Health website to keep updated on exposure sites and follow the health guidelines.

For the latest updates head to, coronavirus.vic.gov.au/exposure-sites.

“It’s important that people get vaccinated as soon as there is an opportunity,” Professor Athan said.

Bookings for AstraZeneca vaccinations are available to anyone over the age of 18 years at the Community Vaccination Hub in Norlane. Bookings are preferred to reduce wait times but walk-ins will be accommodated where possible.

There are limited Pfizer bookings each week for people between the ages of 40 and 60 years. Priority groups such as health, aged care and disability workers of any age are able to get access to priority appointments for the Pfizer vaccine.

To make a booking, phone 1800 675 398 or book online at portal.cvms.vic.gov.au. Additional appointments are added as supply becomes available. Check the website for details and eligibility.