24 February 2023
Dear family member/resident representative,
I’m writing to provide you with an update about your loved one’s aged care centre as we manage the risk of COVID-19 in the Elouera Cottage.
Earlier this week I let you know that two residents in the cottage had been diagnosed with COVID-19 and in response we implemented a number of measures to minimise the risk of transmission. We also started a regime of precautionary testing of all residents in the cottage to ensure early detection of any other cases.
Our residents who were diagnosed with COVID-19 are doing well, with one already reaching their recovery criteria and the other soon to follow.
Pleasingly the results from precautionary PCR tests conducted on Tuesday were all negative and all are well with no COVID-19 symptoms.
In accordance with our testing regime, all residents of the cottage will be tested again today and if all results are negative, we expect to resume regular operations in the cottage.
Until then we are encouraging residents to remain in their room where they are being served their meals and supported with their care needs; and we continue to cohort staff to further reduce the risk of transmission to other areas of the care centre.
I will provide you with an update like this one early next week but, as previously explained, if a resident returns a positive result before then staff will be in touch with their nominated representative to let them know.
Visiting arrangements
As explained earlier this week we have not made any changes to our visiting arrangements, but those who plan to visit a resident in Elouera Cottage should only do so with awareness of the risk of COVID-19 transmission that may still exist within the cottage.
Our visiting arrangements are as follows:
- 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 to complete the wellness questionnaire at reception on arrival.
- All visitors are asked to wear all relevant PPE as directed by staff.
- If visiting a resident in Elouera Cottage you will also be asked to wear a gown and instructed on how to dispose of it safely.
- 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.
Do not visit if you are feeling unwell, even if the symptoms are mild. Even if with a negative COVID-19 test result you may still have another type of contagious infection.
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 support.
Yours sincerely
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
