Decline in COVID-19 cases in residential aged care bodes well for Christmas

COVID-19 cases in residential aged care have eased in the last week, which is good news for the rapidly approaching holiday season.   In the week to 30 November 2023, new case numbers continued to decline, with a combined 1,707 staff and resident cases recorded, down 7% from 1,830 the previous week. There were only two new outbreaks recorded during the week, with outbreaks recorded in 299 aged care homes, Department of Health ad Aged Care figures state. However, 26 aged care residents died during the week, one more than the previous week and amongst the highest numbers seen since July. Just over 1,000 residents received booster shots in the seven-day period, meaning 32.5% of residents are now considered to be fully vaccinated.