Media release

From: American College of Physicians

Letter from Australia’ discusses lessons learned from Australia’s pandemic response

Authors from The University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research reflect on the successes and challenges of Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and discuss lessons learned. Their commentary is published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

In addition to travel restrictions, which were enacted early on in Australia, the authors cite early availability of diagnostic testing, effective contact tracing, and strict adherence to quarantine for returned travelers or exposed individuals as important measures that succeeded in preventing sustained community transmission. When transmission was detected, “lockdowns”; social distancing; and mask wearing in public spaces, workplaces, and secondary schools (students aged ≥12 years) were rapidly utilized. These approaches led to the reduction and cessation of several outbreaks, the authors write.

Despite many successes, Australia has faced some important challenges. Vaccination rates remain relatively low throughout the country, which may be due to reports of adverse reactions from the Astra Zeneca vaccine. The Pfizer vaccine is only now widely available in Australia. In addition to low vaccine rates, mental health issues have plagued the nation. With restricted travel and prolonged “lockdowns,” Australians are reporting ‘worse or much worse’ mental health than before the pandemic.

The authors say that Australia’s response shows the importance of early action that evolves with community behavior.