Death in aged care as Covid recovery rate overtakes new cases

A southern Tasmanian aged care resident is the latest Covid-related death as the state’s recovery rate begins to outpace new cases.

A southern Tasmanian aged care resident is the latest Covid-related death as the state’s recovery rate begins to outpace new cases.

Tasmania recorded 1,212 new Covid-19 cases overnight as 1537 recovered and were released from isolation.

The state’s total of active cases is at 9788 with 110,066 Tasmanians now having recovered from COVID-19.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Premier Jeremy Rockliff and John Fitzgerald CEO Tourism Tasmania launch the Off Season Winter campaign in Hobart. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said there are currently 47 people in hospital with Covid, 20 of those are being treated specifically for Covid with one being cared for in the ICU.

“Sadly, I can confirm that a man in his 80s passed away in a residential aged care facility in the State’s south,” he said.

“I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of this man who has sadly passed away.”

Mr Rockliff stressed the importance of booster shots and flu vaccinations heading into cooler months.

“Getting a booster when you are due continues to be the best defence against COVID-19, with vaccination available at over 100 pharmacies, over 100 GPs and state-run clinics,” he said.

“Those people most at risk from COVID-19 are now also eligible to receive a “winter dose” or second booster.

“This includes those 65 years and over, residents of aged care and disability facilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged 50 and over, and people who are severely immunocompromised.

“Those eligible can also get their flu shot at the same time, so I strongly recommend booking in for both doses with your GP or pharmacy at the earliest opportunity.

The premier noted Tasmania’s vaccination rates for children aged 5 to 11 are also on the rise, with 64 per cent having had at least one dose and 47 per cent with two.