New results from the COVID Community Sentiment Index reveal that while 9 in 10 Australians, along with 92 per cent 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 and those at higher risk are particularly underprepared for managing COVID-19.
Despite almost 2 in 3 high-risk patients expressing concern about their personal risk, only 29 per cent have developed a COVID action plan with their GP. This suggests a need for healthcare professionals to proactively address COVID-19 preparedness with their higher risk patients ahead of a historically higher risk season to support them to have an uninterrupted holiday.[1]
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 of Australians say they would test for COVID-19 if symptomatic, and nearly 1 in 5 would likely go out in public even if they tested positive. [2] With 72 per cent of Australians likely to travel during the holidays, one third do not intend to wash or sanitise their hands regularly while traveling, and two-thirds say they do not plan to test for COVID-19 before traveling, even if symptomatic. [2]
Among the population at risk of serious illness from COVID-19 – those aged over 50 years, with underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions, immunocompromised, or from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander backgrounds – preparedness remains low.[2]
While two-thirds of Australians at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19 plan to travel this summer, 2 only have discussed a COVID-19 action plan with their GP, and just half would test if experiencing symptoms before traveling.[2] Additionally, fewer than 1 in 3 Australians at higher risk of serious illness intend to familiarise themselves with local health services at their travel destinations.[2]
According to Mark Brooke, CEO of Lung Foundation Australia, these figures highlight an opportunity for health professionals to encourage patients at higher risk of serious illness to incorporate health considerations into their travel plans, including having a COVID action plan. “Many Australians are looking forward to a well-deserved break this summer, but for those at higher risk of serious illness, a simple conversation with their GP about a COVID action plan can help avoid unnecessary disruptions and give them the confidence to enjoy their holidays safely.
“Talking to patients at higher risk of serious illness about a COVID action plan before the holiday season ensures they know what steps to take if symptoms appear and can protect themselves and those around them, irrespective of where they are,” Mr Brooke said.
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:
“At this time of year we have previously seen a rise in COVID-19 cases. For patients at higher risk of serious illness, prompt action can mean the difference between mild illness and severe complications. Early discussions with patients about testing, eligibility for oral antivirals and planning for potential exposure are key steps ahead of the summer holiday season.”
This summer provides an important window for healthcare professionals to engage with their patients and ensure they have the tools and knowledge to navigate the continued heightened risks of COVID-19. Early intervention remains a cornerstone in protecting vulnerable populations and mitigating the impact of COVID-19.
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 https://www.knowplango.com.au/
References
1. Australian Government. COVID-19 reporting. Available at: https://www.health.gov.au/topics/covid-19/reporting?language=und (last accessed 19 November 2024)
2. Pfizer Australia and New Zealand. Data on file, November 2024.
