Stay well this winter

Viruses like influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 are around and can be serious for older people.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting really sick so you can keep travelling, visiting friends and doing the things you love.

Influenza (flu) 

Flu is more serious than the common cold and can result in breathing difficulties and pneumonia, but getting your yearly flu vaccine offers the best protection. The vaccine is needed every year as influenza virus strains change (mutate) constantly.

The influenza vaccine is free to everyone aged 65 and over.

Getting vaccinated is quick and easy from your doctor, local pharmacy or Aboriginal Medical Service. It’s not too late to get vaccinated this winter, find a flu vaccine location here.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is serious, but staying up to date with your vaccinations offers the best protection against severe illness.

A free COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone 65 years or older at least every 12 months.

For everyone 75 years and older, it is recommended every 6 months.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist today or find where you can get your free COVID-19 vaccine here.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes respiratory infections.  Older adults are at a higher risk of developing serious complications, as the immune system weakens with age. An RSV vaccine called Arexvy is available if you are aged 60 years and older and may be at higher risk of severe illness from RSV.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about the vaccine, whether it is recommended for you and cost. Please note, this vaccine is not free.

Other things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones 

• Stay at home if you are sick and wear a mask if you need to leave home.
• Gather outdoors or in well-ventilated indoor spaces.
• Don’t visit people who might be at higher risk of severe illness if you have symptoms e.g. those in aged care facilities and hospitals.
• Consider taking a rapid antigen test (RAT), before visiting people at higher risk of severe illness.
• If you are at higher risk of severe illness from respiratory illnesses and make a plan about what to do if you start feeling unwell and discuss if you are eligible for antiviral medicines.
• Antiviral medicines may reduce severe illness, hospitalisation and death from influenza or COVID-19 if taken early in the illness.

If you have health questions about any of these viruses, that are not a medical emergency, speak to your doctor or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for free, 24 hour medical advice from a registered nurse.

For more information on how to protect yourself from viruses this winter visit: health.nsw.gov.au/respiratory