Experts Warn, Don’t Let COVID-19 Disrupt Your Holiday Plans

New results from the COVID Community Sentiment Index reveal that while 9 in 10 (91%) Australians, along with 92% of Australians at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19, are gearing up for an active summer holiday, many are putting COVID-safe behaviours on the backburner. Experts are warning Australians not to let COVID disrupt their holiday plans ahead of a historically higher risk season.

The findings were captured in the fifth COVID Community Sentiment Index, a quantitative research survey of 1,000 Australians commissioned by Pfizer Australia in November 2024. The results showed that less than half (42%) of Australians say they would test for COVID-19 if symptomatic, and nearly one in five (19%) say they would likely go out in public even if they tested positive.

With 72% of Australians likely to travel during the holidays, one third (34%) do not intend to wash or sanitise their hands regularly while traveling, and two-thirds (66%) say they do not plan to test for COVID-19 before traveling, even if symptomatic.

Among Australians at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19, two-thirds (67%) plan to travel this summer. However, only 24% have discussed a COVID action plan with their GP, and just half (51%) would test if experiencing symptoms before traveling. 

There are a range of factors that put people at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19. These include being over 50 years, having a health condition such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions, being immunocompromised, or being from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background.

Additionally, fewer than 1 in 3 (30%) Australians at higher risk of serious illness intend to familiarise themselves with local health services at their travel destinations, and only 27% plan to check for COVID-19 coverage in their travel insurance.

Mark Brooke, CEO of Lung Foundation Australia, emphasised the importance of Australians at higher risk of serious illness having a COVID-19 plan that works while travelling. “With so many Australians looking forward to a well-deserved break this summer, having a simple COVID-19 plan may help those at higher risk of serious illness feel more prepared and confident, reducing the chance of unexpected disruptions”, Mr Brooke said.

“Talking to your GP about your COVID-19 action plan before the holiday season ensures you know what steps to take if symptoms appear and you help protect yourself and those around you, no matter where you are. Checking your travel insurance and familiarising yourself with local health services at your destination are also small but important ways to stay safe while enjoying your holiday.”

For all other Australians, Mr Brooke reminds them: “Simple steps like regular handwashing and staying mindful of others when unwell can also help safeguard public health, especially during the busy holiday season.”

With COVID-19 still present in the community, Australians at higher risk of serious illness are being reminded to take proactive steps to protect their health. For those Australians at higher risk of serious illness who test positive, early action can help reduce the severity of COVID-19.

Dr Krishan Thiru, Medical Director at Pfizer Australia and New Zealand said: “While we know that COVID-19 has become a part of everyday life, we cannot forget many remain at higher risk of hospitalisation and serious illness. This time of year historically sees an increase in COVID-19 cases, making it important for Australians at higher risk of serious illness to act quickly if they test positive."

"Some people may feel fine and think they don’t need to act on COVID-19 symptoms. However, for those at higher risk, early testing, understanding your eligibility for oral antiviral treatments, and acting early can make a big difference," he added.

Dr Thiru also highlighted the importance of timely treatment: “Oral antiviral treatment, if prescribed, needs to be commenced as soon as possible after testing positive for COVID-19 and within five days of symptoms starting. Now is the time to check your eligibility and make a plan with your GP. If you do test positive, do not wait for worsening symptoms – contact your GP right away.”

Australians can check if they are at higher risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19 and their eligibility for oral antiviral medicines at www.health.gov.au or www.knowplango.com.au.

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