03 November 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
I’m writing to provide you with an update as we manage the risk of COVID-19 at your loved one’s aged care centre.
We have now received the results of our PCR tests and unfortunately more residents have tested positive to COVID-19.
We are now caring for ten residents with the virus across all areas of the care centre. The residents are experiencing a range of mild symptoms including a cough, sore throat and runny nose and, where appropriate, are being prescribed anti-viral medication by their GPs. All residents are being monitored closely as we care for them in their rooms.
To reduce the risk of transmission we are encouraging all residents in the care centre to remain in their rooms where they will be supported with their care needs and served their meals. We recognise however that for some this is challenging and, where required, staff are providing support with escorted walks and other forms of one-on-one engagement.
Our Lifestyle team is also providing residents with activities to suit a range of interests and assistance where needed to connect with friends and family by video and phone calls.
To ensure we detect any other cases as early as possible, all residents will be tested via the PCR method again today and on Saturday.
I will provide you with another update early next week which will include the results of these tests. As previously explained, 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 – all areas of the care centre
As we manage the risk of COVID-19 at the centre, visiting is strongly discouraged at this time. If you do wish to continue with your plans to visit, the following arrangements 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
