News & Announcements

The PHN is pleased to announce a second round of immunisation scholarships in 2024. The scholarships aim to upskill eligible nurses to increase the uptake of COVID-19 vaccinations among priority vulnerable populations. The immunisation scholarships support the Government’s COVID-19 response aiming to increase access to the COVID-19 vaccination among vulnerable populations who cannot access or have difficulty accessing the vaccine through existing processes.

The PHN is pleased to advise ongoing support of activities improving access to COVID-19 vaccinations for priority populations until the end of 2024.

New South Wales is currently experiencing another COVID-19 wave, with high levels of transmission occurring in the Hunter New England area.

The Holidays are here, and we are once again seeing an uptick in cases of COVID-19. Whilst rules and regulations regarding COVID-19 have relaxed it is still important to observe basic COVID-19 safety measures to help stop the spread and keep our families, friends and colleagues safe.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has updated their recommendation to allow for the inclusion of the XBB 1.5 COVID-19 vaccines in the National COVID-19 Vaccine Program, this aligns with the current vaccination eligibility criteria.

With increasing local cases of COVID-19¹ it is crucial Aged Care Service Providers stay informed on updates that will impact vulnerable populations, in particular those aged 75 years or older.

Changes to ATAGI guidelines: Monovalent COVID-19 vaccines - As our regions faces increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has issued updated advice regarding the use of Monovalent Omicron XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccines.

COVID-19 vaccines continue to be effective in reducing the risk of severe illness and death. This is particularly important for older adults and those with risk factors for severe disease (1).

In celebration of World Physiotherapy Day, September 8, the PHN explored this year’s theme ‘Rehabilitation and Long COVID - how to take part’ discovering an innovative, multidisciplinary Long COVID rehabilitation program established by ATUNE Health Centres.

From 30 August 2023, NSW Health changed the mask wearing policy which includes changes to mask wearing in NSW hospitals. Use of face masks in general practice medical centres and pharmacies is no longer nationally mandated. However, both the RACGP and NSW Health continue to recommend mask use.