Free Flu Immunisations for Resthaven Staff

Staff flu vaccinations commenced 1 April

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the forefront of everyone’s minds the importance of protection of vulnerable older people from potentially deadly infections.

Former Resthaven CEO, Richard Hearn, says, ‘I would like to reassure the public that Resthaven is monitoring advice at both federal and state government levels and is actively implementing changes as required.

‘We have strong infection control practices in our twelve residential aged care homes, and in our community services teams who visit clients living in their own homes.

‘Although the focus recently has, rightly, been on preventing the spread of COVID-19, we cannot forget the importance of staying safe from influenza, to give older people the best chance of a good health outcome in the face of this pandemic.

‘One of the best ways to protect the health of vulnerable older people is through flu immunisation.

‘I have a flu shot every year, to protect the older individuals we support, many of whom are frail and more susceptible to the impact of the flu.

‘All staff across Resthaven’s services have been requested to have a flu vaccination, and our clinics commenced on 1 April.

‘By 1 May 2020, the Australian Government requires anyone entering a residential aged care home to have had an influenza vaccination, and to provide evidence of having received the vaccination in 2020.

‘Especially in the current health climate, the impact of the flu on the individual, their loved ones, and the very caring staff and people who support them, could be devastating.’

‘I encourage everyone to have a flu vaccination.’

‘Let’s all pull our sleeves up and build immunity in our community!’