South Australia has recorded a 50 per cent increase in reported cases in COVID-19 in a week, prompting a state government call to take more care.

It wants people to protect those in the community who are more at risk of the severe effects of the disease as they gather for end-of-year festivities.

Last week 2493 cases were recorded, compared to 1691 the week before. This compares to 546 cases recorded in the last week of August.

Hospitalisations have remained steady, with an average of 30 people a week admitted with COVID-19 but SA Health says there is often up to a two-week lag in hospitalisations after case numbers increase.   

SA Health Minister Chris Picton says as a relatively new virus, waves of COVID-19 can be expected every three to six months as population level immunity naturally wanes over time.

“With South Australia experiencing a COVID-19 wave as we head into the festive season, we are asking people to take sensible steps to protect themselves, their loved ones and the community.

“This is especially important if you are older or live in an aged care facility, and for those with medical conditions that increase the risk of severe disease.

”If you are eligible, please get a booster. Check in with your GP and make a plan so you can get antivirals quickly. It could save you a trip to hospital, or your life.”

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) advises the Minister for Health and Aged Care on the National Immunisation Program.

Its latest advice recommends a booster for people aged over 74 if it has been more than six months since the last booster dose or COVID-19 infection.

People with impaired immunity through older age, chronic disease or immunocompromise may also benefit from having a second booster in 2023. Vaccine booster doses are available through GPs and pharmacies. 

Current vaccinations offer protection against all variants, reducing the likelihood of severe disease, hospitalisation and death.

As a reminder, COVID-19 symptoms can vary from very mild to severe, and can include runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever or chills, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, headache, changes in taste or smell and muscle and body aches.

The advice is that regardless of whether you test COVID-19 positive or not, if you are sick, stay at home until your symptoms have resolved to reduce the risk of spreading your infection to others more at risk.

For more information visit the SA Health website. The latest ATAGI advice can be found online.