22 August 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to provide you with an update about your loved one’s aged care centre as we manage it in accordance with our outbreak management plan.
I am pleased to let you know that the results of COVID-19 tests conducted on Friday for all residents in House 1 (those not already diagnosed with the virus) were all negative.
In other pleasing news we have welcomed home our two residents who transferred to our COVID-19 unit at Kirrawee, and have recovered. Another of our residents who tested positive has also reached their recovery criteria.
We are now caring for only two residents with the virus and they are experiencing fewer symptoms each day as they continue their recovery.
As we are still managing the risk of transmission within the care centre all residents in House 1 are encouraged to remain in their rooms where they are being supported with their care needs and served their meals.
Next tests
In keeping with our outbreak management plan and on the advice of the local public health unit we will continue our regime of testing to ensure early detection.
To this end, all residents in House 1 who have not tested positive will be tested today and again on Wednesday.
As previously explained, if your loved one returns a positive result staff will let you know.
Visiting arrangements
While there is still a risk of transmission of the virus within the care centre, visiting arrangements remain restricted as follows. Please assist our staff by complying with them.
- Residents are permitted 2 visitors only and strictly by appointment only.
- No children under the age of 12 years are permitted to visit.
- All visitors are asked to show proof of a negative rapid antigen test before entering the care centre. If you complete the test at the centre please wait 15 minutes before entering.
- All visitors must wear all necessary PPE properly at all times while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask and other PPE as directed by staff, such as a face shield and gown. All required PPE will be provided on entry. You will also be instructed on how to dispose of your PPE safely when leaving.
- If a staff member asks you to adjust your PPE they are doing so because they know how it is to be worn in order to protect you, your loved one, and all others living and working in the care centre.
Please do not visit the care centre 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 another contagious virus.
Please pass this message on to others as you consider appropriate and if you have any questions please contact your Care Manager.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely,
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
