Australia’s Chief Medical Officer has urged Australians to embrace the country’s gradual reopening in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Paul Kelly (pictured) said he had noticed that while most people were excited and optimistic about the relaxation of restrictions, others were not.
“My message to Australians is to be confident and enjoy the hard-won freedoms as individual jurisdictions make decisions to lift most restrictions for all, and even more for those who are fully protected by vaccination,” Professor Kelly said.
“Yes, COVID-19 is in the Australian community — and it will remain here for the foreseeable future — but 80 per cent of Australians aged 16 and over are now fully vaccinated, and our State and Territory healthcare systems and our primary care systems are well prepared,” he said.
Professor Kelly said people who felt uneasy could seek support.
“Talk to your GP or specialist,” he said.
“Reach out for mental health support if you need it.
“Talk to your friends and family, and stay connected.
“We have to accept we will continue to see cases of COVID-19 in Australia, and that some people with increased vulnerability may suffer significant illness or even death.
“That happens every year with other infectious diseases like influenza.”
The Professor said this did not diminish the fact that every death to COVID-19 was a tragedy “and my heart goes out to everyone affected by such circumstances”.
“Just like we live with the flu, we have to live with COVID-19,” he said.
“We need to maintain all of the healthy practices that have become such an important part of our response to the pandemic.
“Remember to maintain good hand washing and cough-and-sneeze hygiene.
“Get tested if you have any symptoms and stay at home until you know you don’t have COVID-19, or as required by your local authorities.
“Wear a mask if it makes you feel safe, even if it’s not compulsory.”
The Chief Medical Officer said that as it had been throughout the pandemic, vaccination was the key.
“I encourage every eligible person who hasn’t yet done so to make an appointment to get vaccinated,” he said.
“If you haven’t been inclined to get vaccinated, I would encourage you to keep reviewing that decision,” Professor Kelly said.
