Professor Brendan Murphy (pictured) – soon to be the new Department of Health Secretary – has told providers to focus on their infection control and emergency planning as the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation worsens and the 2022 influenza season approaches.

“There should be established protocols in place at aged care homes to manage any health emergencies that arise, including service-wide infection outbreaks or broader community epidemics,” he wrote.

The Department of Health has developed an emergency response plan for Coronavirus, which can be used as a reference tool to prepare an emergency plan. You can find it HERE.

Factsheets and resources specifically for aged care staff, residents and families can also be found HERE.