Stay COVID-Safe This Autumn and Winter

Stay COVID-Safe This Autumn and Winter

As the weather cools and you pull out your winter woollies again, it’s important to remember to protect yourself and the community from COVID-19. One of the most effective ways to do this is to stay up to date with your COVID vaccine and COVID boosters, reducing the risk of serious illness.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

• Stay COVID-Safe This Autumn and Winter
• What is COVID-19 and How Does it Affect Your Health?
• How COVID is Spread
• Why the COVID Vaccine and Booster Matter During Colder Seasons
• COVID Vaccine vs COVID Booster: What’s the Difference?
• Who Should Get the COVID Vaccine or Booster and Why?
• When Should You Get the COVID Vaccine or Booster?
• Who Is Eligible Under the National Immunisation Program?
• Possible Side Effects of COVID Vaccine and Booster
• COVID FAQs
• Book Your COVID Vaccine or Booster at Nillumbik Medical Centre

Remind Me… What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that affects people in different ways. Some experience mild COVID-19 symptoms, while others can become seriously ill. Common COVID symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Headaches and muscle aches

COVID-19 can lead to severe respiratory illness, hospitalisation, or long-term complications such as Long COVID.

How COVID is Spread

COVID-19 is spread mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. It can also spread via contact with contaminated surfaces and hands. Transmission is more likely indoors during colder months, which is why COVID-19 vaccination is important heading into winter.

Why Does the COVID Vaccine and Booster Matter During Colder Seasons?

People spend more time indoors in the chilly months, increasing the chance of virus spread. Staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine and COVID booster will reduce your risk of contracting the virus and passing it on to others.

COVID Vaccine vs COVID Booster: What’s the Difference?

A COVID-19 vaccine is the initial dose or primary series given to help your body build immunity. A COVID booster is an additional dose given months later to maintain or strengthen your existing protection, especially as immunity fades over time or as new variants emerge.

Who Should Get the COVID Vaccine or Booster and Why?

According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, everyone aged 5 and over is encouraged to stay up to date with their COVID vaccination, especially:

• People over 65
• Pregnant individuals
• People with chronic health conditions
• Immunocompromised individuals
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

When Should You Get the COVID Vaccine or Booster?

COVID-19 vaccines and boosters should be administered every 6–12 months, depending on your age and health status. Speak with your doctor at Nillumbik Medical Centre to find out when you’re due for your next COVID booster.

Who Is Eligible Under the National Immunisation Program?

COVID-19 vaccinations are free for everyone in Australia, including people without a Medicare card. You can use the Department of Health and Aged Care COVID-19 booster eligibility checker to see if you are eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccination.

Possible Side Effects of COVID Vaccine and Booster

Most side effects are mild and short-lived, including:

• Soreness at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Fatigue
• Headache

COVID FAQs

What is Long COVID?

Long COVID refers to ongoing COVID symptoms that last for weeks or months after the initial infection. Symptoms may include fatigue, brain fog, chest pain, and breathlessness.

Should I Still Wear a Face Mask?

Yes, masks can help reduce the spread of COVID-19, especially in crowded indoor settings.

Where Do I Get a COVID Test?

COVID tests are available through pharmacies, clinics, and medical centres. Contact Nillumbik Medical Centre for testing information and to understand your COVID test results.

How Often Should I Get a COVID Booster?

Most people should receive a COVID booster every 6–12 months. Your doctor can advise based on your age and health.

What Are the Best Treatments for COVID?

Antiviral medications are available for high-risk patients. Early treatment can reduce the risk of severe disease. Consult your GP if you’re a high-risk patient and test positive. Otherwise, stay rested and hydrated until symptoms subside.

Book Your COVID-19 Vaccine or Booster at Nillumbik Medical Centre

Stay protected this flu and COVID season—book your COVID vaccination or COVID booster with Nillumbik Medical Centre today!