As the region braces for a large number of visitors from tonight, SWH's Craig Fraser said it's not a time to "let our guard down."

South-west Victorians are now well over 95 per cent first dose vaccinated and by Monday are expected to hit 90 per cent double dosed.

Mr Fraser said the vaccine rates have created protections against the virus, but COVID-19 measures should still remain in place.

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"Let's try to enjoy the new freedoms and long-awaited ability to catch up with family and plan holidays into next year and celebrate the remarkable job we have done, but the basics of COVID safety still apply," he said.

"In effect, treat anyone you don't know like they have COVID and you'll remain well protected.

"As we open up, it is likely we may see more cases so it is very important to QR code wherever you go. This is the quickest and easiest way to be notified about your exposure to any cases.

"I encourage everyone to welcome people to our region from metropolitan areas, they have done it hard. Their lockdowns have been longer and harsher and they are looking to find some joy in their life."

Mr Fraser said coronavirus infections are expected to rise in the south-west but the hospital is ready to support the community.

"We do expect there will be more local cases. If there are, SWH is ready to support the community and will communicate this as soon as we can, including where to be tested

"The good news is that we are well prepared.

"The evidence is compelling, you are very unlikely to need a hospital admission if you are double vaccinated in the unlikely event you contract COVID. However, whether people are vaccinated or not, our team at SWH is here to care for you if you need us."

Currently, SWH is monitoring any person with COVID in the region who are isolating at home, and visit people whenever necessary.

"If people contract COVID and need specialist care, they may need admission to a Melbourne hospital, however we may also admit people locally into the future under the direction of the Department of Health. We are ready when needed."

I also encourage everyone to continue to look after their normal health needs. This includes accessing our health service in whatever area you need help.

"At present, we are running at full capacity in all our services, including elective surgery. We will always deliver our key services, however from time to time these may alter or reduce."

Visitor restrictions remain at all SWH services, including the Camperdown and Warrnambool hospitals.

"I fully understand the issues this causes and I appreciate your support," Mr Fraser said.

"These restrictions, along with ongoing PPE wearing requirements, COVID testing, screening and other patient changes are there to protect our patients, our community and our staff from contracting COVID."

Around 2000 staff and volunteers are 'nearly' all double vaccinated against COVID-19.

Mr Fraser said there was a small number of staff refusing to be vaccinated.

"With no-one currently on site who is not vaccinated, our SWH team have collectively committed to make our environment as safe as we can."

In coming weeks booster shots will be offered to people who received their second doses greater than 12 months ago and children will be added to the COVID-19 rollout locally.

"At this important milestone in our COVID journey, I want to thank the entire south west community. Collectively, we have shown how proactive we are in dealing with COVID.

"We have prevented it where possible, but when we've had cases, the community response has been second to none. Our recent clusters have proven this.

"Not only did we prevent being locked down by our swift and assertive actions, we also knew how to protect ourselves, our families and our businesses, resulting in effectively eliminating it.

"I have no doubt we have learnt to live with COVID through the practices we have all adopted. A

"As Victoria, Australia and the world opens up, let's keep doing what we know works in Warrnambool and the south-west and keep being positive, welcoming, friendly and caring to all we come in contact with."

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