May 1, 2022
Jeremy Rockliff, Prime Minister
Requirements for close contacts of people who test positive for COVID-19 will change this Monday, May 2.
From 12:01 a.m., people who are close contacts will no longer need to self-quarantine for seven days, but they will still need to follow a series of important public health measures.
Close contacts should take a rapid antigen test (RAT) on the day they find out they are a close contact, again on day 6, and each day they leave the house.
Close contacts should wear a face mask when outside the home in indoor settings, notify their workplace of their close contact status, and avoid high-risk premises such as nursing homes. elderly and hospitals.
They will also be advised to avoid large gatherings and social events, and to avoid contact with people who are vulnerable to serious illnesses.
On Monday, anyone who was in quarantine as a close contact can leave their home but must follow these rules for the remainder of their seven-day period.
Close contacts can pick up needed RATs from state-run distribution centers free of charge by completing a RAT request form on the coronavirus website or by calling the public health hotline. Those unable to access one of these established collection points may be able to have them delivered to their home instead.
The Australian government also provides free RATs to people who have a concession card, including a healthcare card. They are available in pharmacies within the limits of available stocks.
Above all, the rules for people who show symptoms or who test positive do not change.
I understand these changes may be concerning to some, but they are another important step in our continued transition to life with COVID-19 and I want to assure Tasmanians that we are doing so safely, reasonably and in accordance to national and Tasmanian public health boards. .
It also aligns Tasmania with most other states and territories including NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and ACT.
As I’ve said many times, the most important thing you can do to protect yourself, your family and the community is to roll up your sleeves and get vaccinated when it’s due.
If you haven’t already, make a reservation with one of the many providers in the state and get vaccinated as soon as possible.
As COVID continues to circulate within the community, I would also like to remind everyone that it is our responsibility to look out for each other by following COVID safe behaviors.
Practice good hand hygiene, practice social distancing, test when you have symptoms, stay home when you feel unwell, and wear masks if needed.
For more information, visit www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au or call the public health hotline on 1800 671 738.
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