With South Africa’s 2025 flu season arriving earlier than expected, retirement communities are ramping up efforts to protect their most vulnerable. At Thornhill Manor, a Rand Aid-run retirement village, over 100 residents signed up for the flu vaccine drive that kicked off on April 17.
The initiative, supported by Dis-Chem, saw the pharmacy group assisting with the vaccine order and providing a nurse to help the village’s own, Sister Joanne Bosman, with administering the vaccines.
“Flu vaccines are crucial for the elderly to reduce the risk of serious flu complications, hospitalisations and death, especially as their immune systems weaken with age,” says Sr Joanne.
The vaccination drive was rolled out over several days. Similar drives took place at Rand Aid’s sister village, Elphin Lodge, as well as the Ron Smith Care Centre. Inyoni Creek held its vaccination day on March 27.
According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), South Africa’s 2025 flu season began during the week of March 24 – the earliest start since 2010. “This early start doesn’t mean that this year’s flu season will be more severe than in previous years, but it does mean that now is the time to protect yourself and your loved ones by getting the flu vaccine,” the NICD advised in a recent press release. Vulnerable populations, including seniors, are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
As flu viruses evolve annually, health authorities recommend yearly vaccinations and stress that it’s never too late to receive protection.
“We are ensuring our residents are safeguarded through proactive measures and accessible primary healthcare,” says Jackie Scott, the village’s deputy manager.
Sr Joanne Bosman vaccinates a resident.
