18 October 2021
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am grateful for your ongoing support as we manage the COVID-19 outbreak at IRT Tarrawanna Aged Care Centre. I know that this is a difficult and challenging time for you and your loved one.
Yesterday all residents and staff were once again tested for the virus and of all the results received so far we have had two more residents test positive. The residents were both from Lyrebird, with one fully vaccinated and the other having received one dose. The resident with one dose has been transferred to Wollongong Hospital for closer monitoring, while the other resident has been moved upstairs to the area in which all residents with the virus are located.
All residents and staff will be tested again today. I realise this is an uncomfortable process but with frequent testing we are able to identify cases early in the development of the virus.
Residents diagnosed with COVID-19 continue to experience a range of symptoms including a fever and cough, while others are still relatively symptom-free. We continue to monitor all residents closely.
There are currently 17 residents with COVID-19 at the Care Centre, as one returned to us from hospital yesterday and we were pleased to see them back. There are six residents in Wollongong Hospital. We are in regular contact with the hospital, as well as the nominated representatives of our residents and reports are that they are stable.
Our Lifestyle team continues to engage with residents and today have a supply of special interest magazines for their enjoyment. The Catering team has provided a variety of flavoured milk drinks today and they continue to supply a range of baked treats.
I have been asked about how the end of the outbreak is determined so that residents can once again receive visitors. This is something that the local, state and federal health authorities will decide following a risk assessment and we will then work with them to develop an opening plan.
Gifts and visiting
As previously advised, the centre remains closed to all visitors (except for those attending for end of life) and gifts can be dropped off between 10am – 11am and 1pm – 2pm each day, at the table outside reception. Please include your loved one’s name and do not send items that require refrigeration.
Ongoing communication
As the nominated representative of your love one, I will continue to update you via this daily email, and our team will continue to contact you by phone each day. I encourage you to pass on this information to other family contacts as appropriate.
If you have any questions or concerns we would appreciate it if you called our Customer Service Team on 134 478.
Thank you for your ongoing patience and understanding.
Yours sincerely
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
