COVID-19 infection and vaccination- information for residential aged care homes

COVID-19 can cause serious illness, especially in older people. Vaccination reduces the risk of severe disease and hospitalisation. Boosters are needed every 6–12 months. Side effects are usually mild and short-term.

Last updated: 30 April 2026
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​How does COVID-19 affect me?

  • COVID-19 can cause chest infection with fever, difficult breathing, muscle or body aches.
  • It can also cause underlying medical conditions to get worse.
  • Older people are more likely to go to hospital if they get COVID-19.

How does the COVID-19 vaccine help?

  • Getting the COVID-19 vaccine every 6 months means you are less likely to get complications or need to go to hospital if you get the infection.
  • The vaccine may not stop you from getting COVID-19 BUT it will protect you from becoming very unwell.

When can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?

  • 65 to 74 years old: Every 12 months, but you can consider a dose every 6 months. A dose every 6 months is most likely to benefit people living in residential aged care homes and those with underlying conditions
  • 75 years and older: Every 6 months

What are common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?

  • Pain, swelling or redness at the injection site, fever and muscle aches are common after the vaccine.
  • These side effects go away​ after 2 to 3 days.
  • Paracetamol can help with the pain, fever and muscle aches.

Why do I need a COVID-19 vaccine every 6 months?

  • Protection from the vaccine gets less as time passes.
  • For good protection, older people should have the vaccine every 6 months.

Where can I find out more information?

Current as at: Thursday 30 April 2026
Contact page owner: Strategic Policy and Program Support