People at higher risk of severe COVID-19

To reduce your risk of COVID-19:

• Stay up to date with your recommended COVID-19 vaccinations
• Talk to your doctor now to learn what you should do if you get sick. You can ask your doctor about:
  • getting a pathology form for a COVID-19 PCR test in case you get symptoms
  • completing a pre-assessment action plan for respiratory infections. This form helps you know which test to take if you get sick and confirms if you may be eligible for antiviral medicines.
  • how to access antiviral medicines quickly if you test positive for COVID-19.
• Wear a face mask indoors and when you can't physically distance from others, such as on public transport.
• Meet with friends or family outdoors or in well-ventilated areas.
  • If possible, ask people not to visit if they have any cold or flu symptoms.
• Practise good hand hygiene.

If you have any cold or flu symptoms, including: 

• a runny nose
• sore throat
• fever
• cough

you should take a rapid antigen test (RAT) and contact your doctor for testing advice. Your doctor may also recommend a COVID-19 PCR test. Early detection means you can access antiviral medicines quickly. 

Stay at home until your acute symptoms have gone, even if your test is negative. 

Read more on antiviral medicines including how to access them if you are eligible.

If your COVID-19 test result is positive you should:

• Contact your doctor straight away and tell them your test result is positive.
  • Your doctor will discuss your care and provide medical support if needed.
  • This may include prescription for antiviral medicines if you are eligible.
  • COVID-19 antiviral medicines work best if taken as soon as possible, and within 5 days from when your symptoms start.
• Follow the advice for people testing positive to COVID-19 and managing COVID-19 safely at home
• If you are worried about your symptoms, contact your doctor.
  • If you can't reach your doctor, use the Service Finder to find one near you, or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 this free service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Registered nurses provide expert health advice and connect you to care. If you need an interpreter, the nurse will arrange one for you.

You can find out more about COVID-19 at Protecting yourself from COVID-19.

Most pregnant women will be able to safely stay at home while they have COVID-19. During this time, it is important to:

• Drink plenty of fluids, like you would with a regular cold or flu.
• Take paracetamol if you feel unwell, to help with symptoms.
  • Ibuprofen is not recommended to take while you are pregnant.
• Remain hydrated and move regularly to reduce your risk of developing blood clots.
  • If you have a history of blood clots or are obese, contact your doctor or maternity care provider to discuss your management option.
• Watch your baby’s movements closely. Call your maternity care provider immediately if your baby’s movements change or if you:
  • are experiencing:
    • vaginal bleeding
    • abdominal pain
    • constant clear watery vaginal discharge
    • contractions any time before 37 weeks
    • persistent fever
    • headaches
    • sudden swelling of your face and hands
  • are in labour
  • have any serious concerns about your pregnancy.
• Call Triple Zero (000) if you have difficulty breathing, develop chest pressure or pain, have severe headaches or dizziness. Tell ambulance staff that you have COVID-19 and are pregnant.
• Continue your regular antenatal care after recovering from COVID-19.