To help protect its elderly residents, Central Gippsland Health (CGH) is encouraging all visitors to its four aged care facilities to be vaccinated against the flu.

During the COVID pandemic, visitors to aged care must have had their COVID-19 vaccinations. While flu vaccinations are not mandatory when entering aged care in Victoria, being vaccinated against respiratory illnesses can help protect residents and prevent further outbreaks.

“We would like to see visitors to our aged care facilities fully vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19,” CGH Chief Executive Officer, Mark Dykgraaf explained. “The three full doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, combined with your flu shot adds to the layers of protection against these potentially dangerous respiratory illnesses where our elderly are at most risk.”

The outbreak of any virus in an aged care facility can cause significant problems and CGH is asking the community for its support to help take extra precautions when it comes to visits.

Those fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and the flu should still not visit an aged care facility if they have;

  • been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the last 7 days
  • have a fever or symptoms of a respiratory infection such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose or shortness of breath

“The risk of transmission of COVID-19 and now the flu, has necessitated the continuation of restrictions on visitors accessing residential aged care services,” Mr Dykgraaf said.

“As we transition into the ‘COVID-19 normal world’ while facing predictions of a bad flu season, it’s important for the valued friends and family of our aged care residents to help us safely manage the risks.”

People can get their free flu and COVID vaccination at Our Lady of Sion in Sale on Thursdays 11am – 5.30pm.

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