25 May 2023
Dear family member/resident representative,
I’m writing to provide you with an update as we manage the risk of COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) at your loved one’s aged care centre.
I’m pleased to advise that our two residents who were previously diagnosed with COVID-19 in the Lyrebird and Kookaburra Wings have reached their full recovery criteria and are now free of the virus.
Unfortunately, however, a couple of residents in the Rosella and Lorikeet Wings have now tested positive to COVID-19. The residents are experiencing some mild symptoms such as nasal congestion and a cough, and we are monitoring them closely as we care for them in their rooms.
As this is considered a new outbreak, we will be commencing a new testing regime to ensure early detection of any other cases. If your loved one returns a positive result, we will let you know by phone and continue to provide you with a daily update regarding their progress.
We also continue to care for one resident in Rosella with RSV and we are monitoring them closely in consultation with their GP.
I will continue to keep you updated on the status of the outbreak.
Visiting arrangements
While we manage the risk of COVID-19 and RSV at the centre, you are encouraged to postpone your visit at this time. If you do continue with your plans to visit, the following arrangements apply:
- All visitors will be asked to wear a P2/N95 mask and a face shield which will be provided on entry.
- Those visiting a resident who is considered a close contact or is COVID-19/RSV-positive will also be asked to wear a gown and instructed on how to dispose of it safely.
- Children under the age of 12 are strongly discouraged from visiting at this time.
All other visiting arrangements, including the requirement to provide proof of a negative rapid antigen test result on arrival, continue to apply. You can find more information about our visiting arrangements on our website 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 support.
Kind regards,
Rebecca Perry
Operations Manager – Illawarra Aged Care Centres
