COVID-19 has been identified as a key issue for health and aged care. The Australian Government has adopted a whole of government emergency response which provides a framework for preparing for, responding to and managing COVID-19 in Australia.
COVID-19 infection can be more severe for people aged 70 years and over, people aged 65 years and over with chronic medical conditions, people with compromised immune systems, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50.
Healthdirect has information to help you manage COVID-19:
Older people and their carers can also ring the free OPAN hotline for COVID-19 with any questions they have 1800 171 866
Having access to information and resources that you can trust is important. Here we provide this for older people with palliative care needs and their carers and family. Remember to talk with your doctor or care team if you have any questions or concerns.
Getting more information
You can call the National Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you require translating or interpreting services, call 131 450.
The phone number of each state or territory public health agency is available at https://www.health.gov.au/about-us/contact-us/local-state-and-territory-health-departments. To find out about local restictions put in place as part of the response to COVID-19 visit the Health Direct Restriction Checker.
Visit the following websites:
Page updated 22 July 2022