Residential care facilities and influenza

Influenza vaccinations

Influenza is currently circulating in the community and it is expected to continue to increase across the winter months. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself this winter.

Influenza (flu) shots are recommended for residents

• Flu shots are recommended for all residents annually, as they are the single most important measure for reducing the risk of serious flu for individuals and preventing flu outbreaks.
• The flu shot will be provided to residents free of cost.
• However, residents do have the right to refuse vaccinations. If a resident is unable to be vaccinated due to refusal or for medical reasons this must be clearly documented and managed appropriately.

Visitors

It is strongly recommended that all visitors are vaccinated for influenza before this winter and that aged care facilities communicate this with families and other visitors to remind them about the importance of influenza vaccination.

For entry requirements into aged care facilities please read the Chief Health Officers Advice.

Staff

• It is strongly recommended that all staff are vaccinated for influenza before this winter and that aged care facilities communicate this with staff to remind them about the importance of influenza vaccination.
• This includes, but is not limited to nurses, kitchen, administration, cleaning staff, transport crews as well as any visiting volunteers or agency staff.
• This has the dual benefit of reducing flu illness in staff members and helping to prevent the spread of flu from staff to vulnerable residents, reducing their risk of serious pneumonia, hospitalisation and death.

For entry requirements into aged care facilities please read the Chief Health Officers Advice.

Policies, guidelines and fact sheets

• Influenza vaccination for residential care staff
• Department of Health - Advice on seasonal influenza vaccines in 2022
• NSW Health – Seasonal influenza vaccination – Frequently asked questions