Keep up to date with your vaccines
As we get older, we're more likely to get sick from the flu or COVID-19. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat or fever. You might also experience headaches, aches, shortness of breath and chest pain.
Regular vaccination is the best way to protect yourself. It helps prevent you from getting really sick, needing to go to the hospital or even dying.
When to get vaccinated:
- If you're aged 75 years or older, a COVID-19 vaccine is recommended every 6 months.
- If you're aged between 65 to 74 years, talk to your GP, pharmacist or nurse practitioner to see if you're eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine every 6 months.
- All adults are eligible to get COVID-19 and flu vaccines every year.
You can get both vaccines at the same time. You don't have to wait 6 months after a COVID-19 infection to get vaccinated.
Older people living in an aged care home are more vulnerable to common viruses, like COVID-19 and the flu. This is because of their age, health conditions and shared living arrangements.
If you or someone you love lives in an aged care home, make sure you talk to a health professional about vaccinations.
Help your family member, friend or loved one living or working in aged care to get their COVID-19 and flu vaccines.
You can get vaccinated by your GP or pharmacist, or at your local community health centre or Aboriginal health service.
To book an appointment, find a health service at Health Direct or call 1800 022 222.
Let's change aged care, together
Every Australian should feel confident about accessing high quality and safe aged care, when and where they need it.
The changes mean Older people will have greater choice and control, services that respect and meet their needs, and support to stay independent as they age.
To find out more and help design the changes, visit the Get Involved page or call 1800 318 209.