12 August 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to let you know that we now have a total of three residents who have tested positive to COVID-19 at your loved one’s aged care centre.
The residents, who live in the Nelligen Wing and Bateman House, are experiencing symptoms ranging from mild to none at all and are being monitored closely as we care for them in their rooms.
In response to this, we have implemented our outbreak management plan which includes putting in place all infection control protocols and co-horting of staff to specific areas of the care centre.
To reduce the risk of transmission, we continue to encourage all residents in the care centre to remain in their rooms where staff are supporting them with their care needs, serving their meals and supplying activity packs to suit a range of interests. The Lifestyle team is also assisting residents where needed to connect with family and friends by video and phone calls.
To ensure we detect any cases as early as possible, all residents will be tested again today via the PCR method where tests are set off-site for analysis in a laboratory. Results for these tests can take up to 24 hours.
I will provide you with another update early next week which will include the results of today’s tests. If your loved one returns a positive result, staff will let you know by phone and continue to update you on their progress.
Visiting arrangements
As we manage the risk of COVID-19 at the centre, visiting is strongly discouraged at this time, however if you do wish to continue with your plans to visit, the following arrangements now apply:
- Residents are permitted 2 visitors only by appointment.
- 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.
- All visitors are asked to wear a P2/N95 mask when visiting and other PPE as directed by staff.
- 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.
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 which is highly contagious.
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
