Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and COVID-19

You and your mob are at greater risk of illness from COVID-19. Know what to do to protect your family, your community, your elders and yourself.

COVID-19 is dangerous

COVID-19 is a disease. Anyone can get COVID-19. Sickness from COVID-19 can be severe, especially in elders and people with underlying health conditions. You can die from COVID-19.

Keep your mob safe

COVID-19 spreads through small droplets in the air and on surfaces. You can protect yourself and your family by:

  • washing your hands regularly
  • cleaning surfaces that people touch like doorknobs, mobile phones and benchtops
  • wearing a mask
  • keeping 2 big steps away from others.

Symptoms of COVID-19

Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

  • coughing
  • sore throat
  • fever
  • tiredness.

Living with COVID-19

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or are a close contact you should get tested. If you have symptoms, you should stay at home until your results come back.

Find out what to do if you test positive.

COVID-19 vaccines

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your children and elders from COVID-19.

Vaccines are safe, free and available to everyone 5 years and over in Australia.

Learn more about getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

Getting help

Talk to the National Coronavirus Helpline about support and ask questions about COVID-19 and vaccines.
Call 1800 020 080 and choose option 5 to speak with a priority agent. The helpline is open all day, every day.

1800 020 080

Resources

You can also have a yarn with a healthcare worker at an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health/medical services.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group on COVID-19 provides culturally appropriate advice to the Department of Health, including for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health services and communities about COVID-19.

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