Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Lives Matter: Many thousands of people around the country gathered in public places to give that message loud and clear over the weekend. This has been followed by some mixed messages about the risks of catching COVID-19 and who needs to be tested. Through following the health messages below, we can continue to keep COVID-19 infections low amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all Australians.

People with coronavirus can spread the virus for at least 48 hours before showing symptoms. This is why it is important you continue with social distancing, regular hand washing and cough hygiene. If you can, avoid contact with Elders and with people with chronic medical conditions as these people are at much higher risk of serious COVID-19 illness if they get infected.
If you develop even the mildest of symptoms, stay home and get a COVID-19 test.

The symptoms that warrant a COVID-19 test include a sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, loss of smell, loss of taste, chills, night sweats or a temperature over 37.5°C. The earlier we pick up infections, the quicker we can move to prevent further spread. 

Testing is only recommended for people with symptoms.