The outbreak of any virus in an aged care facility can cause significant problems.
Do not visit aged care facilities if you have:
- returned from overseas in the last 14 days
- been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the last 14 days
- have a fever or symptoms of a respiratory infection such as a cough, sore throat or shortness of breath
From 1 May 2020, you must have had your influenza vaccination to visit an aged care facility.
Aged care facilities must take extra precautions when it comes to visits. These include:
- making sure visits are kept short
- allowing no more than two visitors, including doctors, at a time
- making sure visits occur in a resident's room, outdoors, or in a specific area they designate - there should be no visiting in communal areas
- ensuring there are no large group visits or gatherings, including social activities or entertainment
No school groups of any size are allowed to visit residential aged care facilities.
No children aged under 16 years are permitted to visit residential aged care facilities except in special circumstances.
If you cannot visit your family and friends in a residential aged care facility, it's important to keep in touch. Make phone or video calls, send postcards, photos or artwork or film short videos to share.
See more information for residents of aged care services, family members and visitors.
