The Omicron threat remains real but unconfirmed in the region with Ballarat chalking up four new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, following a string of high infection numbers. Ballarat's active COVID-19 case tally stood at 84 on Wednesday.

Grampians Public Health Unit medical director Rob Grenfell and operations director Robyn Wilson said testing remained vital to prevent the deadly virus' spread these holidays - even if it meant isolating on Christmas Day.

Pressure has continued to rise on COVID screening sites across the city for travellers and people with COVID-19 symptoms.

But Dr Grenfell and Ms Wilson said rapid antigen test kits, easily available from community pharmacies, could offer peace of mind for family gatherings.

"Doing a rapid antigen test before you go if you're still unsure is one way of actually determining or at least lowering your risk [of exposing others to COVID-19]," Dr Grenfell said. "And most importantly, get vaccinated, I can't say it enough. That will help you in that setting."

Polymerase chain reaction, better known as PCR tests, must be carried out by health professionals in a clinic setting, including drive-through hubs. These are a must for anyone with cold or flu or hayfever-like symptoms. Results are generally back within 24 hours.

Rapid antigen test results are typically back within 20 minutes and, while less accurate, can provide a good gauge.

"The great concern that so many of us have over this period is whether the Christmas party is going to be ruined by someone bringing COVID in and giving it to one of our treasured elderly relatives or someone who in fact has a compromised immune system. This is a real concern and one that I share with everybody else.," Dr Grenfell said.

"The suggestion of doing a rapid antigen test before you attend your Christmas function is actually a good idea.

"Bear in mind that if you have symptoms you probably should consider getting a [PCR] test, which is what we recommend everyone do, and not attending the Christmas party. That is going to actually be a challenge for many people."

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Ms Wilson added celebrating outside or in well-ventilated rooms, such as with windows open, and to consider staggering Christmas celebrations more.

Grampians Public Health Unit has found most case clusters now stem from pre-Christmas celebrations and people catching up with work colleagues and loved ones they might not have seen in awhile.

Compassionate Ballarat's Lynne Reeder also encouraged people to nurture close relationships these holidays, particularly amid concerns of COVID infections or family splits on vaccinations.

"Be kind to the people closest to you and to those you encounter by offering them the things that really matter - your time, deep listening, and enjoying and sharing their company," Dr Reeder said.

"At the end of this stressful year it is important to remember that what matters the most is to nurture our closest relationships - everything else is optional."

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