As news broke of eight COVID-19 cases confirmed in SA this afternoon, quarantine requirements have been tightened for close contacts linked to two suspected cases infected with the Omicron variant, regardless of vaccination status.
Close contacts will now be required to quarantine for 14 days, instead of the previous 7 for fully vaccinated individuals. Casual contact requirements for Omicron cases will continue with the requirement to get tested immediately and quarantine until a negative test result is received, and to get tested again on day 6 and day 13.
“Despite their high vaccination rates, we have already seen the ACT move to all Omicron close contacts requiring 14 days of quarantine,” says Chief Public Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spurrier.
“South Australia is also in a more vulnerable position to immune-escape from the Omicron strain given our current vaccination rates and potential for higher transmission in comparison to other states.”
“Vaccinated close contacts of suspected Omicron cases will be advised if the genomic results show the case is another strain and their quarantine requirements will be reduced to seven days,” continues Spurrier.
“We will review the quarantine requirements as we learn more about the severity of Omicron and as always, will put the health and safety of South Australian’s first.”
The Communicable Disease Network Australia yesterday updated the National Guidelines stating jurisdictions should consider increasing testing, isolation and quarantine requirements in relation to the Omicron strain.
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