ACTIVE COVID-19 cases in Wangaratta continue their decline, with only 19 cases recorded in the last weekly reporting period, down from 32 the previous week.

The Department of Health said across the state, 3956 COVID-19 cases were reported, a decrease of 35 per cent from the previous week.

The average daily number of new cases was 565, down from 876 the previous week.

The seven-day rolling average of patients with COVID in Victorian hospitals has decreased by 24 per cent from the previous week, with 255 COVID patients currently hospitalised.

But a total of 113 COVID-related deaths were reported to the department in the past week, with an average of 16 deaths reported each day.

The department said there remains a substantial amount of COVID transmission in the community along with other respiratory viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Unfortunately the number of Victorians eligible for a 2023 booster dose remains stubbornly high, with 4.2 million Victorians able to receive it, including over 50 per cent of those aged over 65, despite vaccination providing the best protection against becoming severely unwell or dying from COVID.

We are advised to take a test if we have symptoms and stay home if we are sick.

COVID-19 booster appointments are available through a local GP or pharmacy including South Wangaratta Medical Centre and Ramsay Pharmacy in Ovens Street, or visit www.healthdirect.gov.au to search for a provider.

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