Between 22 December and 25 January, 597 deaths from COVID occurred.

More than 5000 Australian aged care residents have died with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic.

There was a sharp increase in the number of deaths from the end of last year, with 597 deaths nationally between 22 December and 25 January.

An update of Department of Health (DoH) data on 27 January recorded 291 active outbreaks in as many aged care facilities. About 1220 active cases were recorded among residents and 432 among staff.

The report revealed staff shortages at dozens of facilities. In the week leading up to 25 January, a surge workforce filled 817 shifts at 46 residential aged care homes.

The temporary surge workforce is a Commonwealth initiative that allows approved facilities to call on a reserve workforce.

Tom Symondson, Chairman of the Aged & Community Care Providers Association, told The Guardian that “the community might be living with COVID, but the pandemic remains very much a reality in aged care”.

The DoH update also revealed high levels of vaccination among aged care residents.

“As at 27 January 2023, there are currently 157,833 residents eligible for fourth doses. In total 134,929 residents, or 85.5 per cent of eligible residents, have received a fourth dose,” the update said.

‘The community might be living with COVID, but the pandemic remains very much a reality in aged care.’

— Aged & Community Care Providers Association Chairman, Tom Symondson