It's a group of Queenslanders who numbered a few thousand in late December but grew into the tens of thousands within weeks: people who have caught and recovered from COVID-19.
For two years, we've been hearing about symptoms, testing and quarantine protocol, but what about after you've had the virus?
Am I immune now?
Queensland Health says there is evidence that reinfection can occur one month after the initial infection — so people who have recovered should be tested again if they develop new symptoms at least a month after they leave isolation.
Several experts say that while it's hard to know for sure at this stage, it's likely people who've recovered from the Omicron strain should have a pretty high level of protection for about three months.
The Chief Health Officer has said Omicron likely accounts for 95 per cent of the cases in Queensland.
But it is possible to be infected with the Delta variant, recover, and then be reinfected with the Omicron strain.
Does that mean I can be a household contact again?
Queensland Health says public health measures will remain in place for close contacts who have recently recovered from COVID-19.
That means you'll still have to follow directions regarding testing and quarantine as a close contact, if you're a household or household-like contact.
It's understood exceptions could be made for people who've recovered within the past week who then have a household or household-like contact test positive – if it's pretty clear that it's the same infection, the recovered person may not need to follow the quarantine rules.
Anyone who is unsure should seek advice from 13 HEALTH or a health professional.
And if you develop new symptoms after a month, get tested.
Queensland Health says the widespread transmission of COVID-19 means it's important people are aware of the possibility of reinfection.
Should I still get my booster shot?
Queensland Health continues to encourage anyone who's eligible to receive a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
People who've already had COVID-19 once can be vaccinated as soon as they've recovered from their acute illness — or they can defer vaccination up to six months after the onset of their infection.
As usual, anyone who has clinical questions, particular risk factors or employment requirements should talk to an appropriate medical or health practitioner.
Here's some more details on this issue – with the guidance currently under consideration by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).
At what point should I be concerned about long COVID-19?
The state health authorities say if you've had symptoms for longer than four weeks, it's time to talk to your doctor.
The peak body for family doctors, the RACGP, has a handy guide for dealing with COVID-19 at home. It says about 5 to 15 per cent of people who've had COVID will still have some symptoms after three months.
Symptoms could include feeling tired, having a persistent cough, having trouble thinking clearly, depression or anxiety.
The RACGP recommends having a check-up with your GP in six weeks to discuss any ongoing symptoms, or earlier if needed.
