Mrs. Janine Carrucan1, Mrs. Magdalena Di Giacomo1, Mr Dylan Parker1
1Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Douglas, Australia
Biography:
Janine Carrucan is IPC Lead at Townsville Hospital, managing a multidisciplinary team since 2010. She is credentialled as an Expert ICP, serves as an ACIPC Board Director, and sits on the Queensland Infection Control Network Steering Committee. She also teaches at James Cook University and co-delivers national sterilisation training.
Abstract:
Australia’s ageing population is placing increasing pressure on healthcare services to meet the complex needs of older adults. Healthcare workers are at the frontline, and their health and wellbeing have a direct impact on patient safety and care outcomes. Despite this, staff vaccination remains an undervalued infection control activity. Vaccine-preventable diseases such as influenza and COVID-19 pose ongoing risks that can disrupt workforce capacity and threaten continuity of care for vulnerable older patients.
A focused staff immunisation program was rolled out, targeting influenza and other preventable diseases. The initiative combined leadership endorsement, tailored education to tackle vaccine hesitancy, and made vaccines easily accessible within healthcare facilities. The aim was to boost uptake, protect staff, and reduce risks of infection spread within clinical environments. Education sessions addressed concerns and misinformation, helping build trust and confidence in vaccination.
Following the program, vaccination rates among staff rose significantly. Importantly, many staff reported feeling genuinely cared for and supported, which fostered higher engagement and trust in infection prevention efforts. The sense of being valued boosted morale and reinforced a culture of shared responsibility.
Staff immunisation is a vital but often overlooked infection control measure that protects both healthcare workers and patients. It strengthens workforce resilience and supports sustainable healthcare delivery in the face of demographic challenges.
Clear communication, strong leadership, and empathetic education are key to overcoming vaccine hesitancy. Ongoing commitment is needed to sustain immunisation coverage and safeguard staff health—because looking after our people is the foundation of looking after our patients.