COVID-19 remains in circulation among communities across western Victoria. As such, all eligible people are encouraged to ensure they are up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters and to continue using Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) to test for the virus:
- if you have COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are very mild
- if you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19
- before visiting a hospital, aged care facility, or disability care facility
- before visiting elderly people, people with disability or people at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness.
Vaccinations and boosters
COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone aged five years and older. Boosters are also recommended for all adults:
- aged 65 years and over
- aged 18 to 64 who have medical comorbidities that increase their risk of severe COVID-19
- aged 18 to 64 who have a disability with significant or complex health needs.
To find local clinics providing COVID-19 vaccines, please refer to the Vaccine Service Finder
Testing for COVID-19
Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are the easiest way to test for COVID-19. You are no longer required to report a positive rapid antigen test in Victoria.
Treating COVID-19
Most adults with a mild case of COVID-19 can manage their symptoms at home using treatments similar that used for the season flu. However, people aged 70 years or older or at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, should speak to a GP about oral treatments before getting sick and contact them for a script as soon as testing positive. You need to start oral antiviral treatments within 5 days of symptoms starting or testing positive for COVID-19.
Long COVID
The term ‘long COVID’ is generally used to describe both:
- ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 – COVID-19 symptoms lasting more than four weeks
- post-COVID-19 condition/syndrome – COVID-19 symptoms after 12 weeks that are not explained by an alternative diagnosis.
Long COVID can present differently in different people and symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Last modified: 30 June, 2025