14 March 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
Thank you for your ongoing support as we manage the risk of COVID-19 in your loved one’s aged care centre.
Yesterday I let you know that two residents on Level 3 had tested positive to COVID-19. In response to this we implemented a number of additional infection control measures including the isolation of all Level 3 residents in their rooms and testing of all other residents across the care centre.
Late yesterday the results of these tests determined another resident to be positive in Pearl Wing on Level 2. All three residents are experiencing mild symptoms and are triple vaccinated.
In consultation with the residents and their families, two have been relocated to our IRT COVID-19 wing in Kirrawee where they will continue their recovery. You will recall we transferred one of our residents there last week following a positive test result – they are recovering well.
I recognise the increase in positive cases is a concern and in response we have implemented further measures including the isolation of all Level 2 residents in their rooms where they will be served their meals.
The Lifestyle Team is on hand to assist residents where needed to connect with family and friends by phone or video call, and to ensure they have access to resources and activities of interest.
We will continue daily testing of all residents and staff in the care centre using the rapid antigen testing method until we are able to coordinate PCR testing by an external pathology lab which we hope will be in the coming days.
In addition to the four residents who have tested positive we have also had two staff test positive. They are currently isolating away from work and are experiencing mild symptoms.
Visiting arrangements
As outlined yesterday I strongly encourage you to reconsider the need to visit your loved one.
If you feel you must continue with your scheduled visit please proceed with caution. If visiting a loved one on Levels 2 and 3 please do so, only in their room, wearing all necessary PPE at all times.
Daily testing for visitors
Until we are certain that the risk of COVID-19 spreading within the centre has been contained, all visitors will be asked to undergo a rapid antigen test each time they enter. So, if you visit each day, you must be tested daily.
Please do not visit the care centre if you are unwell with even the mildest symptoms, or if you are awaiting the result of a PCR test.
For all other details of our visiting requirements for NSW aged care centres please see information here.
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 ongoing support.
Yours sincerely,
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
