12 August 2022
Dear family member/resident representative
I am 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 received the results from Wednesday’s PCR tests and while all were pleasingly negative we have since had a third resident in House 1 develop symptoms and test positive via rapid antigen test. With further PCR testing today we expect the diagnosis to be confirmed and have already engaged with their GP regarding the prescribing of anti-viral medication.
In consultation with their families, the initial two residents with COVID-19 in House 1 have been transferred to our COVID-19 unit in Kirrawee where they will continue with their recovery.
We continue to manage the care centre with the utmost caution and in line with our outbreak management plan including our program of COVID-19 testing for early detection.
To this end, all residents in House 1 will be tested again today via the PCR method where tests samples are set off-site for laboratory analysis and results can take up to 24 hours.
I will provide you with another update early next week which will include the results of those tests. As I’ve mentioned previously, if your loved one returns a positive result, staff will let you know by phone, and a member of staff will continue to provide you with a daily update regarding their progress.
Visiting arrangements
While we continue to manage the risk of COVID-19 at the centre you are encouraged to postpone your visit at this time. If you do continue with your plans to visit, please assist the care centre by complying 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.
- All visitors must wear all necessary PPE properly at all times while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask and other PPE as directed by staff, such as a face shield and gown. All required PPE will be provided on entry. You will also be instructed on how to dispose of your PPE safely when leaving.
- If a staff member asks you to adjust your PPE they are doing so because they know how it is to be worn in order to protect you, your loved one, and all others living and working in the care centre.
As is always the case, 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.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
