With increasing local reports of the illness in the community, and the world talking about a new strain, the advice from health authorities is to not be complacent.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District said COVID-19 activity in NSW is at a moderate level.
However, as reporting of cases is no longer mandatory, the true number may not be known.
According to the latest available respiratory surveillance report issued by NSW Health, there were 98 cases of COVID-19 reported in the MLHD region in the week ending May 24.
In the same period, NSW Health was notified of 116 influenza cases and 32 respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases in Murrumbidgee.
In the previous reporting period, there were 49 active COVID-19 cases in MLHD, 106 influenza cases and 28 RSV cases.
“New South Wales Health continues to monitor emerging COVID-19 sub-lineages including NB.1.8.1,” an MLHD spokesperson said.
“This sub-lineage is increasing within the New South Wales community in line with global trends, and current data does not indicate it is a more severe illness than other variants.
“New South Wales Health continues to strongly recommend all people stay up to date with their vaccinations as recommended for their age and health status by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).
“COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide strong individual protection for people at higher risk of serious illness and death from COVID-19, including older adults and those with underlying health conditions. This is also expected to remain effective for COVID-19 sub-linage NB.1.8.1.”
The latest advice from ATAGI recommends:
• a COVID-19 vaccination every six months for all adults aged 75 years and over;
• a COVID-19 vaccination every 12 months for adults aged 65–74 years and adults aged 18–64 with severe immunocompromise; these people can consider a vaccination every 6 months
• a COVID-19 vaccination every 12 months can be considered for all other adults aged 18–64 years, and those aged 5-18 years with severe immunocompromise.
Vaccines are still widely available through community pharmacies and general practice.
Respiratory surveillance reports and information about COVID-19 can be accessed at www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/reports.aspx.
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