Covid-19 numbers ‘more than doubled’ in residential aged care

Covid-19 numbers have doubled in residential aged care over the past two months amid an ‘alarmingly low’ drop in Covid-19 vaccination rates, according to a recent federal government report.

Over 2,600 residents and aged care staff tested Covid positive on April 20, an increase of 75 per cent compared to April 6.

Around 33 per cent of aged care residents had a booster shot or Covid infection in the last six months, according to a recent government update.

“These booster shot figures are alarmingly low,” Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) Chief Craig Gear said.

“Service providers must work with older people and their families to ensure every aged care resident is supplied with up-to-date information and access to a booster shot."

Covid case numbers are expected to increase as we enter the cooler months, Deakin University Chair in Epidemiology Catherine Bennett said.

According to a government report last year, antiviral treatments can help reduce risks of hospitalisation and death for people aged 70 and over.

It said two treatments, Lagevrio and Paxlovid, had been a 'gamechanger' in preventing severe sickness and death among those at risk.

“We know older people are at higher risk of complications,” Mr Gear said.

“We also know they were disproportionately affected by the previous lockdowns.”

Residents are also reminded that they can still have an Essential Visitor even during a lockdown.

“It’s important to balance the risk of infection with the mental and physical impacts of social isolation,” Mr Gear said.

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