South Australia (SA) eliminates the need for close COVID-19 contacts to be quarantined for 7 days, but no more.
This change will take effect on April 30 and SA will be consistent with New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.
It comes with a new rule that includes the requirement that close contact of positive cases undergo 5 rapid antigen tests in 7 days.
You must also wear a mask outside your home, are prohibited from visiting high-risk areas such as geriatric care centers, and communicate your status to your employer or the school you are in contact with.
In addition, close contact is required to avoid non-essential gatherings and contact with vulnerable people.
If they develop symptoms, they must undergo a PCR test and be quarantined until they receive the results.
“This is a huge change and an important step,” said Nicola Spurrier, Chief Public Health Director, on Friday.
“But we know that people with whom we have a close relationship are at increased risk of getting sick, so we still need to take some precautions.”
Prime Minister Peter Marinauskas said the change would provide significant relief to the corporate sector affected by the quarantine requirements, even if the number of cases could be “slightly increased.”
“Our hospital system is able to handle difficult situations, so we can do this,” he said.
“The change to a close contact arrangement was a thoughtful and thoughtful decision.
“This is why we buy that extra week to make sure the number of cases continues to function at the right level and the hospital system is coping with it.”
The changes took place after the SA Emergency Management Council meeting began next Tuesday.
This decision was also after Friday’s infection increased from 4079 to 4500 on Thursday and SA withdrew its widespread mask obligations last week.
Tim Donin
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Australian Associated Press is an Australian news agency.