Victorian Department of Health

Working together to achieve the best health and wellbeing of Victorians. Read our community guidelines before posting -

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Simple hygiene and preventive measures like covering coughs and sneezes, regular hand washing and staying home when unwell can help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

More about this advisory and vaccinations: https://t.co/sH51E1ipvS
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[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

In Victoria, cases of influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are increasing with cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) also high. Health service visits for respiratory illnesses have also been increasing.
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[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Early antiviral treatments for influenza and COVID-19 can help to reduce severe disease for high-risk individuals.
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[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Immunisations are available for many respiratory illnesses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is never too late to get vaccinated.
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[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Bird Flu has now been detected in Victoria, on the south east coast near Portland.

Latest updates: https://t.co/0WENv4Xp6Q

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

H5N1 bird flu has been detected in Australia for the first time, found in migratory seabirds in WA SA and NSW.

The risk to most people is low. Human cases are rare, and you can't catch it from cooked poultry or eggs.

More: https://t.co/C6NDFoGrG4

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

H5N1 bird flu has been detected in Australia for the first time, found in migratory seabirds in WA SA and NSW.

The risk to most people is low. Human cases are rare, and you can't catch it from cooked poultry or eggs.

More: https://t.co/C6NDFoGrG4

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

There has been an update to active public exposures sites for measles cases in Victoria.

People who have visited an active site should monitor for symptoms of measles and follow health advice.

Full list of exposure sites: https://t.co/7H9YSKvAc0

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Heroin is an opioid and even in small amounts, it can cause life-threatening overdose.

Signs of opioid overdose include breathing slowly and reduced consciousness.

If you or someone you're with is experiencing an overdose, call 000 immediately.

More: https://t.co/ohNSSSgRh2

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Victoria’s Virtual Hospital Pilot is expanding access to specialist care at home.
Launched in December 2025, the Pilot has delivered care to over 500 patients, including many who would otherwise need to stay in hospital.

Learn more: https://t.co/s1dwepfGEx

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

For more information about Etomidate, including symptoms and where to get help, visit: https://t.co/XMp0FXVi5z

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Etomidate is a powerful anaesthetic drug that has been found in vapes sold in Melbourne.

It can cause rapid onset deep sedation, confusion, impaired coordination, vomiting, loss of consciousness & difficulty breathing.

If you or someone else is experiencing the above, call 000.

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

There has been 6 cases of acute liver toxicity linked to unapproved peptide products labelled Retatrutide. Do not use these products. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, dark urine, yellow skin/eyes. More info: https://t.co/gjEtlQCjNc

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Measles still poses a risk. Read more about measles vaccination and hear from health experts here: https://t.co/FLlHdQX2jr

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

@Firedingo Hi there, an evaluation of the trial will be undertaken to gather evidence to inform future decisions about continuing or expanding the program, improving harm reduction strategies, and ensuring naloxone is available where and when it's needed most.

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Victoria is rolling out naloxone dispensing machines. They offer free, 24/7 access to medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. 20 machines will roll out across metro and regional areas where they’re needed most.

Find out more: https://t.co/wfqIrvZzF2

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

@combattiva_ Hi there, Naloxone can be accessed by anyone from the dispensing machines.

Naloxone is a lifesaving medication, not an illicit drug. It is nonaddictive, nonintoxicating, and only works if opioids are present in the body. It has no recreational effect and no street value.

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

@Druagamaniac Hi there. Naloxone is a vital first aid tool, just like CPR, making overdose response part of everyday safety. It is non-addictive, non-intoxicating, and cannot be misused. For more information, visit: https://t.co/AOUmzuaJVd

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

We’re pleased to announce the reappointment of Prof Andrew Wilson as Chief Medical Officer. Andrew brings extensive experience across clinical care, health system leadership & academic research.

We congratulate Andrew & acknowledge his ongoing leadership in this important role.

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Three people in separate incidents have recently required emergency care because they experienced heroin overdose after using what they thought was cocaine.

Heroin is an opioid that can produce life-threatening toxic effects.

Learn more: https://t.co/mhOIK1RIeS

[Victorian Department of Health @VicGovDH]

Entries for the 2026 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards will close in less than one week, on Friday 29 May.

For further details and to submit a nomination, visit: https://t.co/RY8PJH3sMM