COVID-19 update for south-west Victoria: January 2

Victoria reported 7172 new COVID-19 infections on Sunday, January 2, and another three virus-related deaths.

It comes after Victoria moved to new isolation and close contact rules in line with definitions agreed at national cabinet.

Positive cases must inform their household and social contacts of their illness and can now isolate for seven days, rather than 10, regardless of vaccination status.

IN OTHER NEWS: 'Tragic outcome' after man drowns at popular south-west camping destination

Active cases as of January 2 in the local region are:

Household contacts of positive cases must also isolate for seven days and can use a rapid antigen test for the all-clear if they are not symptomatic, but must get a PCR test if they show symptoms.

Workplace and school contacts are no longer required to get a test and isolate until they receive a result.

International travellers now have the option of completing a rapid antigen test on arrival - as well as on day five to seven - but are no longer required to isolate.

The number of coronavirus patients in hospital care remains relatively stable at 472, up 19 on Saturday's figure and 48 beyond the seven-day average.

Of them, 52 are classified as active ICU cases and 22 are in need of ventilation.

In total, Victoria is managing 31,461 active COVID-19 cases.

Health authorities says virus testers managed to process 48,252 results in the 24 hours to Saturday evening.

About 93 per cent of Victorians aged over 12 have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Australian Associated Press

IN OTHER NEWS: