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Infectious disease

Infectious diseases are illnesses that are transmitted through contaminated surfaces, food, water or organisms.

People with disability may experience more serious health concerns if they contract an infectious disease. Antiviral treatments and vaccines can prevent vulnerable people from contracting some infectious disease or minimise the effects of illness. Yooralla can support clients to access these medicines by organising referrals to health services.

If you would like to discuss further, you can contact the Disability Health team by emailing disabilityhealth@yooralla.com.au

Please find resources below to help protect yourself from any current health threats.

COVID-19 and accessing antivirals

Antiviral medications assist with reducing the severity of illness, minimising the chances of hospitalisation and long-COVID. 

Vulnerable groups can be eligible to access antivirals. It is important when a person is confirmed to be infected with COVID-19 they:

seek a prompt medical review from their GP, and
discuss their eligibility for antiviral medications.

Eligibility

You might be eligible for antivirals if you meet one of the below requirements.

These lists are not exhaustive, if you are unsure whether you meet the eligibility please consult your GP.

You are between 18 and 69 years old and have any primary or acquired immunodeficiency conditions including one of the below:

blood cancer or some red blood cell disorders
transplant recipients
primary or acquired (HIV) immunodeficiency
chemotherapy or whole-body radiotherapy in the last 3 months
high dose corticosteroids or pulse corticosteroid therapy in the last 3 months
immunosuppressive treatments in the last 3 months

If you are aged 30 years and above, are a First Nations Person and

living in residential aged care
living with disability with multiple conditions and/or frailty (but not limited to living in supported accommodation)
neurological conditions like stroke or dementia and demyelinating conditions e.g. multiple sclerosis
chronic respiratory conditions including COPD and moderate or severe asthma
obesity
diabetes
heart conditions

If you are between 50 and 69 years old and

living in residential aged care
living with disability with multiple conditions and/or frailty (but not limited to living in supported accommodation)
neurological conditions like stroke or dementia and demyelinating conditions e.g. multiple sclerosis
chronic respiratory conditions including COPD and moderate or severe asthma
obesity
diabetes
heart conditions

You are eligible for antivirals.