What is SARS-CoV-2?
SARS‑CoV‑2 is the virus that causes COVID‑19, a contagious respiratory disease that emerged in late 2019 and has since circulated worldwide. It belongs to the coronavirus family and spreads primarily through infectious droplets and airborne particles from an infected person’s coughs, sneezes, talking, or breathing. The virus can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
COVID‑19 continues to be a global public health concern, with the World Health Organisation documenting nearly 780 million cases and over 7 million deaths globally, though true numbers are likely higher due to under‑reporting.
FAQs
How often should I get vaccinated for COVID-19?
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COVID‑19 vaccines reduce the risk of severe illness and death. In Australia, anyone 18 years and older is recommended to have at least one immunisation. People aged 75 years are recommended to have booster doses every six months, and those aged 65 to 74 benefit from an annual vaccination.
Boosters are also recommended for people with certain underlying health conditions and others with risk factors. Consider discussing your requirements with a travel doctor before you go.
How long before I travel do I need to have my COVID-19 vaccination?
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To ensure optimal protection, COVID-19 vaccinations or booster doses should be completed two weeks before travel to allow an immune response to develop.
What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccination?
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COVID-19 vaccination side effects can be mild with pain, redness or swelling where the injection was given, fatigue, headache, muscle or joint aches, chills, fever and, less frequently, nausea or swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms usually begin within a day of vaccination and resolve within a few days.
Severe allergic reactions are rare. Uncommon risks include myocarditis and pericarditis, which involve inflammation of the heart or its lining particularly in younger males, and severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis. For a full list of possible side effects see the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
What should I do if I test positive for COVID‑19 while travelling?
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If you test positive for COVID-19 during travel, the World Health Organisation advises travellers to follow the guidance provided by health authorities at their specific destination. Quarantine or isolation may be required in accordance to the destination country's policy.
Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, or loss of speech or movement.
Refer to the World Health Organisation website for further questions regarding COVID-19 and travel.
What to Know
COVID-19 symptoms
Symptoms of COVID-19 generally appear 1 to 10 days after exposure to the SARS‑CoV‑2 virus. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and changes in taste or smell. Some people have mild or no symptoms, and asymptomatic infection is common.
Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, breathing difficulty, and complications affecting the heart or other organs. People who are older, immunocompromised, or have underlying health conditions are more likely to experience severe illness.
Some people, with varied initial symptoms, can develop post-COVID syndrome, also called 'long COVID.'
COVID-19 diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis of COVID-19 is confirmed by testing for viruses through a PCR swab or rapid antigen tests. Globally, both types of tests are generally accessible in urban and healthcare settings, while availability in rural or resource-limited areas may be more limited.
In younger people without specific risk factors for severe disease, mild infections can usually be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over‑the‑counter relief for pain or fever.
For those at higher risk of severe disease, antiviral medications and supportive treatments may be recommended by a clinician. Early treatment in higher‑risk individuals can reduce the likelihood of hospitalisation and serious outcomes.
COVID-19 prevention
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe COVID‑19 illness and hospitalisation. Keep up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters, and confirm your vaccination status with your travel doctor.
The World Health Organisation estimates that COVID-19 vaccination has averted nearly 2.5 million deaths globally between 2020 and 2024.
While travelling, take extra care in crowded indoor spaces like airports, public transport, and tourist sites. Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitiser, keep distance from anyone unwell, and ensure accommodations are ventilated. Consider wearing well-fitting masks in high-risk areas.
Monitor your health, seek testing if symptoms appear, and take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. Isolate if needed, and follow local guidance.