No, COVID-19 isn’t over in aged care: outbreaks persist

If you have a loved one living in aged care, you may be wondering whether COVID-19 is still a real concern. The truth is, for residents and staff, the pandemic hasn’t just disappeared — and the latest figures prove it.

<p>COVID-19 was the boogeyman in Australia’s aged care for years, but since the height of the pandemic, health experts are still wary. [Source: selimaksan via iStock]</p> — COVID-19 was the boogeyman in Australia’s aged care for years, but since the height of the pandemic, health experts are still wary. [Source: selimaksan via iStock]

According to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, more than 300 aged care homes across Australia were managing active COVID-19 outbreaks as of June 26, 2025. In just one week, over 2,400 people — including nearly 1,800 residents and almost 700 staff — were affected. Sadly, 27 residents died during that time.

Outbreaks continue — here’s why

While case numbers and death rates are lower than in the early waves, the virus still finds a way to spread, especially when booster rates drop. As of late June, only 56 percent of residents aged 75 and over had received a booster dose in the past six months, significantly lower than the recommendation from health experts.

Why you’re still asked to test and mask up

If you’ve been asked to wear PPE, do a rapid test before visiting or follow stricter hygiene rules, you’re not alone. Infection control measures remain vital for protecting older people who are still at higher risk of severe illness.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission continues to conduct thousands of infection control checks annually. Good infection control helps prevent outbreaks, but it also relies on visitors doing their part.

What families can do to protect loved ones

⎷ You should stay up to date with your own booster shots.

Your vaccination status matters too; the more protection you have, the less chance you’ll bring COVID-19 into the home.

⎷ You should about your loved one’s boosters.

If you’re not sure when they last had one, talk to their care team or GP. It’s okay to speak up.

⎷ You should follow visitor rules — even if they feel tiring.

If you feel unwell, take a RAT and reschedule your visit if needed. A sniffle could mean a lot more in a shared home.

⎷ You should stay connected during outbreaks.

Sometimes, lockdowns or visiting restrictions return. Video chats, phone calls or a letter in the mail can lift spirits when face-to-face visits aren’t possible.

⎷ You should be patient and kind to the staff.

Many workers are still doing daily RATs too and covering extra shifts to keep care consistent.

COVID-19: a shared responsibility

COVID-19 may not dominate the news every night anymore, but for aged care homes, it remains an integral part of daily life. Testing, PPE and booster shots protect the people you love most — and you have a big part to play.

Want to stay informed? Talk to your loved one’s care team, GP or the home’s manager if you have questions. Staying updated and supportive makes a real difference.

Is COVID-19 something that has impacted the care of a loved one? Let the team at Talking Aged Care know and subscribe to the newsletter for more information, news and industry updates.

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