26 May 2023
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to provide an update about how we are managing the risk of COVID-19 at your loved one’s aged care centre.
Since writing to you earlier this week, seven more residents have tested positive to COVID-19. The residents are located in the Woodburn, Morton and Meroo wings, and the resident who tested positive in Meroo has since been transferred to the Woodburn wing until they reach their recovery criteria and is free of the virus.
The residents are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms including a cough and sore throat and we are monitoring them closely in their rooms in consultation with their GPs. Where appropriate, the COVID-positive residents have commenced antiviral medications.
To ensure early detection of any other cases, all residents in Woodburn, Morton and Meroo who have so far tested negative for COVID-19 will be tested via the PCR method today. If your loved one returns a positive result, staff will let you know by phone and continue to provide you with a daily update regarding their progress.
Visiting arrangements
As we manage the risk of COVID-19 at the centre, you are encouraged to postpone your visit to the care centre at this time. If you do continue with your plans to visit, please assist the care centre by complying with the following:
- All visitors are asked to complete their own rapid antigen test at home or on arrival at the centre and provide proof of the negative result (photo or actual test).
- All visitors are asked to wear a P2/N95 mask when visiting and other PPE as directed by staff.
- Those visiting a resident who is considered a close contact or is COVID-19 positive will be provided with direction on any further PPE requirements by a member of staff.
- Please wear your PPE as instructed by staff. If a staff member asks you to adjust it they are doing so to protect you, your loved one, and all others living and working in the care centre.
Please do not visit your loved one if you are experiencing any symptoms or are feeling unwell, even if the symptoms are mild. Even if you have a negative COVID-19 test result you may still have influenza which is highly contagious.
Please pass this message on to others as you consider appropriate and if you have any questions please contact your Care Manager Tammy Tautai on 0448 126 187.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely
Linzi Kells
Operations Manager – Shoalhaven Aged Care Centres
