18 August 2022
As you will be aware, we are currently managing your loved one’s aged care centre in accordance with our outbreak management plan.
This is in response to some of our residents in House 1 being diagnosed with COVID-19. The outbreak management plan outlines best practice steps for infection control including the establishment of zones within the care centre, co-horting of staff in specific areas, and the requirements for ensuring where possible that residents remain in their rooms.
In consultation with the local public health unit, the plan also outlines the regime for regular testing of residents in the care centre to ensure any further cases are detected as early as possible.
Test results
Yesterday all residents in House 1 who don’t have the virus were tested, and with all results received, I can confirm another resident has returned a positive result. The resident has no symptoms and in consultation with their GP they have been prescribed anti-viral medication.
We are now caring for three residents in the care centre who have been diagnosed with the virus. They are all considered stable and are experiencing very few symptoms.
Our two residents who were diagnosed early last week and transferred to our COVID-19 unit at Kirrawee have continued their recovery and we are pleased to be expecting their return to us tomorrow.
We continue to encourage all residents in House 1 to remain in their rooms where they are being supported with their care needs and served their meals. The Lifestyle team is also providing support; checking in on them to see if they would like fresh activity packs and assisting with phone or video calls if required.
Next tests
Those in House 1 who have not already tested positive, will be tested again tomorrow and on Monday (as per our regular testing regime). I will provide you with another update early next week when we expect to have an update regarding all the results.
As previously explained, if your loved one returns a positive result staff will let you know.
Visiting arrangements
While the risk of transmission within the care centre remains you are encouraged to postpone your visit but if you do wish to continue with your plans to visit it would be appreciated if you could please assist staff 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.
Just a reminder, 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 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
