It’s that time of year again, where we wave goodbye to the heatwave and say hello to the cooler months and approaching icy winter season! A shift that I’m sure will be very welcomed by some!
As we prepare for winter, Finley Regional Care is taking important steps to help protect the health and wellbeing of our residents, staff and visitors from influenza (the flu), including our 2026 winter vaccination program.
Influenza can cause serious illness, particularly in older people and those with underlying health conditions. Vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and outbreaks in aged care settings.
From April 2026, free seasonal influenza vaccines will be available under the National Immunisation Program. All residents will be offered the 2026 influenza vaccination as part of their routine care.
Who is eligible?
• All residents aged 65 years and over are eligible for a free annual influenza vaccine
Consent forms
- Consent forms will be available at the reception desk and will be offered to all residents (or their nominated representative) prior to vaccination. Our team is happy to assist with any questions about the consent process.
Keeping vaccinations up to date
When residents receive their flu vaccination, our nursing team will also review their immunisation history. Where appropriate, residents may also be offered:
• Pneumococcal vaccination
• Shingles vaccination
• COVID-19 booster immunisations, in line with current health recommendations
Keeping vaccinations up to date helps protect not only individual residents, but our whole care community. If you have any questions about vaccinations, please speak with our nursing team.
Vaccination dates will be sent out to all residents who have provided consent once stock levels are received in April.
Thank you for supporting our shared commitment to keeping Finley Regional Care a safe and healthy place for everyone.
(Amy Lankester, Director of Nursing)
