25 August 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
Thank you for your ongoing support as we manage the outbreak of COVID-19 at your loved one’s aged care centre.
You might recall from my last update that yesterday all residents not diagnosed with the virus on Level 3 and in the Dementia Support Unit were tested via the PCR method.
We have received the results and pleasingly all were negative.
In addition to this good news, all residents in the Dementia Support Unit who were earlier diagnosed with the virus have reached their recovery criteria and all in that Unit are now able to leave their rooms and meet with others in their common areas and dining room.
There are now five remaining residents on Level 3 who are continuing their recovery, and they are stable, with improving symptoms. Along with all other residents on that level, they are being supported with their care needs in their rooms where they are also being served their meals.
All residents from that level who haven’t been diagnosed with the virus will be tested again tomorrow via the PCR method and if all results continue to be negative I hope my update to you next week will include news of the transition out of our outbreak management plan.
Until then however, there are no changes to our visiting arrangements. We continue to encourage you to postpone your visit but if you do continue with your plans to visit please comply with the following:
- 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 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. The 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 remember: 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
