As we enter the winter months, the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) is encouraging the community to remain vigilant and get tested for COVID-19 when presenting with any cold and flu-like symptoms.

Viruses such as rhinovirus (the common cold) and influenza have symptoms which are similar to COVID-19, therefore, it is very important that individuals seek medical advice, are tested and do not self-diagnose.

Dr Michael Dray, President of the RCPA explains that COVID-19 testing will inevitably slow over time as the rate of new cases falls and community transmission is limited, however, pathology testing remains an important preventative tool by identifying any ongoing spread of the virus.

“Australia and New Zealand are in an enviable position, however, as we have seen with the recent outbreaks, we are still at risk and now is not the time to become complacent.

Ongoing testing and surveillance will remain critical as we enter these winter months, when conditions may favour the spread of the virus. It is also important that everyone remains aware that what could seem to be normal winter sniffles might actually be COVID-19.

If anyone suspects that their flu-like symptoms could actually something more serious, it is vital that they get tested immediately and remain isolated until they return a negative result. The days of “soldiering on” have gone.

“This is the time of year when the common cold is circulating within the community which shares a lot of the same symptoms as COVID-19.

Without a pathology test, there is no way to tell the two apart. In Australia and New Zealand, the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) remains the gold standard test and, in many cases, pathology laboratories across both countries are returning a next-day result.

It is important we aim to reach a minimum number COVID tests each day so we can be confident the virus is not circulating in the community,” said Dr Dray.

The RCPA also reminds the community that the advice for anyone who has received the vaccine and has cold and flu symptoms, is to get a test and isolate until receiving a result.

Although the vaccine provides protection from serious consequences of COVID-19, it is still possible to contract the virus after vaccination. COVID-safe measures remain in place after being vaccinated.

This includes:

• practising good hygiene
• practising physical distancing
• following the limits for public gatherings
• understanding how to isolate if required.

“We must remember that the COVID-19 vaccination does not make us bullet proof, nor is it a substitute for safe behaviour. It should supplement other public health rules and guidelines.

Data suggests that it is possible to catch the virus when vaccinated, although usually only mild disease, and we remain unsure whether vaccinated people can pass it on, even if they don’t have symptoms. It is important, therefore, that people continue to get tested.

“Any side-effects from the vaccine, such as a fever or feeling fatigued, are usually only mild and temporary. It is important to remember that these are signs the vaccines are working to boost your immune system, rather than signs of COVID itself,” said Dr Dray.

All vaccines are thoroughly tested for safety before they are approved for use in Australia and New Zealand and are subjected to extensive trials overseas to ensure efficacy and safety, including careful analysis of clinical trial data, ingredients, chemistry, manufacturing and other factors.

The vaccines are also further assessed by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) before they are rolled out. The New Zealand (NZ) government has agreements for a similar range of vaccines and has comparable regulatory safeguards in place.