15 June 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to provide you with an update about your loved one’s aged care centre.
You will recall from my message to you yesterday that all residents of Nebo (who have not tested positive) were tested again via the PCR method.
I am pleased to let you know that we have received all the results and all are negative. Our two COVID-19-positive residents in that area are continuing their recovery while two residents remain in hospital where they are receiving further treatment.
Meanwhile we have had a resident of Huntley return a positive result for COVID-19 following an unrelated exposure to the virus. The resident is experiencing mild symptoms and being monitored closely. To ensure we detect any other cases in Huntley all residents are being tested using the PCR method today and we have encouraged them to remain in their rooms where they will be cared for and served their meals.
I will provide another update when we have the results, but if you have a loved one in Huntley and they return a positive result staff will let you know by phone.
With the risk of the virus still present within the centre and more broadly in the community, we are vigilant with our infection control protocols and continue to manage the care centre in accordance with our outbreak management plan.
Our Lifestyle team continues to support residents where needed with activities of interest and offering assistance where needed with phone and video calls.
Visiting arrangements and the wearing of PPE
If you wish to proceed with visiting at this time, please provide your support to staff by complying with the following:
- Children under 12 years of age are not permitted to visit.
- Residents will be permitted 2 visitors only by appointment.
- All visitors will be asked to show proof of a negative rapid antigen test before entering the care centre.
- All visitors will be asked to wear all necessary PPE while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask and a face shield which will be provided on entry.
- If you are visiting a resident who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 you may be asked to wear a gown and instructed on how to dispose of it safely.
- Please assist staff by complying with all requirements to wear PPE.
As always please do not visit your loved one if you are unwell yourself with even the mildest symptoms. Even if you have tested negative for COVID-19 you may still have an infectious respiratory infection.
Please pass this information to others as you consider appropriate.
If you have any questions please contact your Care Manager.
Thank you in advance for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely
Richard Walsh
Acting EGM – Aged Care Centres
