19 May 2023
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to let you know that three residents at your loved one’s aged care centre have tested positive to COVID-19.
The three residents, who live in Woodburn wing, are being cared for in their rooms and are experiencing mild symptoms.
We have implemented our outbreak management plan which includes a number of infection control protocols to ensure the risk of transmission is reduced at the care centre.
To ensure early detection of any other cases, all residents in Woodburn who have so far tested negative for COVID-19 will receive a rapid antigen test tomorrow. If your loved one returns a positive result, staff will let you know by phone and continue to provide you with a daily update regarding their progress.
Visiting arrangements
As we manage the risk of COVID-19 at the centre, you are encouraged to postpone your visit to the care centre at this time. If you do continue with your plans to visit, please assist the care centre by complying with the following:
- All visitors are asked to complete their own rapid antigen test at home or on arrival at the centre and provide proof of the negative result (photo or actual test).
- All visitors are asked to wear a P2/N95 mask when visiting and other PPE as directed by staff.
- Those visiting a resident who is considered a close contact or is COVID-19 positive will be provided with direction on any further PPE requirements by a member of 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.
Upcoming resident and relatives meetings postponed
To minimise the risk of transmission across the care centre, we have decided that it is best not to proceed with the Resident and Relatives, Food Focus and Seniors’ Rights meetings that were scheduled for next week.
I will be in touch with you again soon to provide details of the rescheduled meetings.
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 co-operation.
Yours sincerely
Linzi Kells
Operations Manager – Shoalhaven Aged Care Centres
