Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Grace and peace, I hope this note finds you well.

I am writing to remind our Communities that we must remain steadfast in continuing to do the good work of keeping South Australia safe, with the borders about to open up.  

As we move into this next phase it has been indicated there will be no further State lockdowns however, testing and quarantine for those infected/casual and close contacts will remain in place. 

The length of time for quarantine is dependent on vaccination status. A General Public matrix has been developed (see attached). In addition to this SA Health will conduct detailed risk assessments for each situation and a tailored approach will be developed for each person/site whether infected or in close proximity to someone infected.

Some other reminders:

1.         Everyday precautions:

Practising good hygiene is the first step in preventing the spread of infectious diseases

a.         Wash your hands often with soap and running water, for at least 20 seconds. Dry them with paper towel or a hand dryer. Alternatively use alcohol based hand sanitisers.
b.         Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
c.         Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.
d.         Stay home if you are unwell to avoid making others sick.

2.         The wearing of masks:

a.         Please remind your Congregations that masks must cover both the nose and the mouth.
b.         The wearing of masks is mandatory under the Emergency Management Direction 2021. Penalties apply for non-compliance.
c.         Provisions exist to accommodate people with health issues however they are required to provide proof they have an exemption.

3.         Physical distancing:

a.         Keep at least 1.5 metres distance from others wherever and whenever possible.
b.         Avoid hugging and kissing.
c.         Swap handshakes for a wave.

4.         Vaccinations:

a.         Ensure you are vaccinated.

I take this opportunity to thank our dedicated COVID Marshals who provide a very important service during COVID. Please follow their directions with courtesy.

If there are any particular questions/issues that apply in your context I encourage you to contact Sarah Moffatt smoffatt@adelaide.catholic.org.au. You are also encouraged to advise Sarah Moffatt if you become aware of any COVID related infection affecting your community.

In Domino
Patrick O’Regan, Archbishop of Adelaide