15 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.
Since writing to you on Friday we have received results of the tests conducted on that day and Sunday, which have confirmed two more residents from Level 3 of the care centre have COVID-19. Both residents are stable with mild symptoms such as sore throat and cough and they are being monitored regularly as we care for them in their rooms.
Pleasingly, however, all other results were negative.
We are now caring for 26 residents with COVID-19 at the care centre with some who were diagnosed earlier in the month expected to reach their recovery criteria today and in the coming days. This occurs at least 10 days after diagnosis and a further 24 hours without symptoms. We also have one resident who remains in Westmead Hospital where they are receiving ongoing treatment for their symptoms.
We continue to encourage all residents to remain in their rooms where they are being supported by staff with their care needs. The lifestyle team is available to assist where needed with phone and video calls.
To ensure we detect any other cases within the care centre as soon as possible, all residents who have not already tested positive will be tested again tomorrow. The tests will be sent off site for analysis and we expect to receive the results within 24 hours. As previously explained if your loved one returns a positive result staff will contact you to let you know.
Visiting arrangements
Until we are certain there is no further risk of transmission of COVID-19 in the care centre you are encouraged to postpone your visit at this time, however if you do continue with your plans to visit please assist staff by complying with the arrangements outlined below.
- Residents are permitted 2 visitors only and strictly by appointment only.
- No children under the age of 12 years are permitted to visit. I know this is challenging but please do not bring children to the centre while we are managing an outbreak of COVID-19.
- 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 and if you can please take a photo of it with your phone to show staff if they ask you to.
- All visitors must wear all necessary PPE properly at all times while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask, face shield and gown which will be provided on entry. You will also be instructed on how to dispose of your PPE safely when leaving.
- Please co-operate with staff if they ask you to adjust your PPE. They will do so because they know how it is to be worn correctly in order 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 or 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.
Yours sincerely
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
