6 steps to protecting yourself and others
Protecting yourself and others from COVID-19 is easy! Just follow these six steps and stay well this summer.
Step 1. Get vaccinated
Book your third dose or fourth dose with your GP or at your local pharmacy now.
Step 2. Wear a face mask
Wearing a high-quality and well-fitted face mask lower your chance of catching and spreading COVID-19. It is recommended that you wear a face mask:
- for at least seven days after testing positive to COVID-19 if you need to leave home, if you are indoors with others or if you are unable to maintain physical distance
- if you are a close contact and need to leave home
- if you are visiting or working in a hospital or aged care facility
Step 3. Let fresh air in
COVID-19 is an airborne virus that is spread when a person breathes out very small droplets that contain the virus. You can reduce the spread of COVID-19 by allowing fresh air into a space. Choose to meet or sit outdoors when you can.
Step 4. Test if unwell
You should continue to test for COVID-19 using rapid antigen tests (RATs) if you have symptoms. Symptoms may include:
- blocked or runny nose
- sore throat
- cough
- aches and pains
- mild headache
- loss of or change in smell or taste
- feeling more tired than usual
- loss of appetite or nausea
Step 5. Take medicines if at risk
Medications to treat and prevent COVID-19 are available to people who have a high risk of getting very sick. These medications do not replace vaccination. People that are most likely to need hospital care if they catch COVID-19 can get medications including people who:
- are aged 70 and over
- are aged 50 and over with certain health conditions (or 30 if they're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander)
- have a weakened immune system, disability or a born with heart disease.
Check if you are eligible for COVID-19 medicines here.
Step 6. Manage COVID-19 at home
If you have received two or more COVID-19 vaccinations, you will have good protection against the virus meaning that if you do catch COVID-19, you should be able to recover from your illness at home.
Managing a mild COVID-19 infection at home is safe and appropriate and ensures that hospital beds are kept free for people who are seriously unwell and need urgent medical treatment.
If your COVID-19 symptoms are worsening, you can:
For severe COVID-19 symptoms including a severe shortness of breath, chest pain or fainting, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
To see a full list of COVID-19 symptoms to watch out for and when to get help, click here.