COVID - information and free RATs from Council

Free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are no longer available from Council

The Government Funded Free RATs program has ceased, and test kits are no longer available from any Colac Otway Shire Council location.

COVID Update

Important measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce risk of severe illness include:

Face masks and other personal protective equipment: a high-quality and well-fitted mask can protect the wearer and others from the virus.
Vaccination:COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective in protecting people against severe illness, hospitalisation, and death. People should remain up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations. Some workers may be required to be fully vaccinated.
Ventilation: Where possible increasing fresh air by opening windows and doors, making use of existing heating and cooling systems to bring in fresh air.
Testing of symptomatic people and close contacts to enable protective behaviours, such as isolation. RATs can be purchased from chemists.
Isolation of people with symptoms until symptoms resolve.
Treatment with antiviral medication for those at high risk of developing severe illness – see also consumer antivirals information.

Flu Season – Influenza

Important measures to avoid getting the flu are:

Getting a flu vaccine every year is recommended for everyone aged 6 months or older. You can get your Flu vaccine at your GP or from Councils Immunisation Program on the first Thursday 9:30-12pm of the month and the third Monday 2:30-4:30pm. If you are planning to come to one of the Council sessions please make sure you are not unwell on the day and let Barbara Paine know prior Barbara.Paine@colacotway.vic.gov.au.
While not 100% effective, the flu vaccine provides a high level of protection and can reduce symptoms in those still getting sick.
The flu vaccine can be co-administered (that is, given on the same day, one after the other) with other vaccines. This includes whooping cough, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), pneumococcal and COVID-19 vaccines.
Wearing a face mask and practicing good hand hygiene can help to reduce your chances of catching the flu or passing it on to others.