As the colder months roll in, so does the increased risk of respiratory illnesses, particularly COVID-19 and influenza. For older Australians, especially those living in residential aged care, these viruses can have serious, and even life-threatening, consequences.
While the media spotlight on COVID-19 has dimmed since the height of the pandemic, the virus has not gone away. It continues to circulate in the community and poses a significant risk to older adults. Although fewer people are now dying from COVID-19 than during the early days of the virus, the threat remains real. For some, the impact of infection can still be severe, resulting in hospitalisation, long-term health issues, or worse.
The Chief Clinical Advisor of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has raised serious concerns about the persistently low COVID-19 vaccination rates in aged care homes across the country. Recent data from the Department of Health and Aged Care reveals that just over 40 percent of Australians aged 75 and older in residential care have received a COVID-19 vaccination in the past six months.
This is worryingly low, especially for a group known to be more vulnerable to complications. In contrast, the current flu vaccination rate for the same demographic sits at a more promising 75%. While that is a better number, there's still room for improvement, especially as co-infection with COVID-19 and the flu can have devastating outcomes.
Protecting those most at risk
Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of both COVID-19 and the flu, and to protect those most at risk of serious illness. A timely vaccine can help reduce the severity of symptoms, lower the risk of hospitalisation and potentially save lives.
To support this, the Australian Government funds GPs, pharmacists and other primary care providers to deliver free COVID-19 and flu vaccines in residential aged care settings. COVID-19 vaccines are also available to everyone in Australia, including those without a Medicare card.
A Call to Action
With the colder season underway, now is the time to act. If you're eligible yourself, roll up your sleeve and lead by example. If you're a provider, organise your clinic to be ready as a vaccination provider. If you have a loved one in aged care, ask when their next vaccination is scheduled.
Because when we all do our part, we don’t just protect ourselves. We protect each other.
