People aged 70 years and over, people with compromised immune systems, and people with some chronic medical conditions are at greater risk of more serious illness from COVID-19.
The risk of serious illness from COVID-19 increases with age. The rate is higher for those with other serious health conditions or a weakened immune system.
People living with dementia or some form of cognitive impairment may find it difficult to follow instructions to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19, or alert others about potential symptoms.
This applies particularly when people have a limited capacity to communicate verbally or express pain and discomfort.
The roll-out of the national COVID-19 vaccination program is expected to begin in February. Residential aged care workers and residents are a priority and will be among the first people in Australia to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
The Australian Government’s COVID-19 Vaccines National Rollout Strategy has more information about the phases of the vaccine rollout.
However, there is currently no cure for coronavirus and vaccination has not begun. There is no immunity in the community, so you need to protect yourself.
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