31 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, and to also share the minutes of our last Residents and Relatives Meeting.
COVID-19 update
We have received the results of our last rounds of PCR tests which have unfortunately confirmed more residents to have the virus.
We are now caring for a number of residents with COVID-19 in the Rosella, Lorikeet, Kookaburra and Kingfisher wings of the care centre. One of these residents has been transferred to Wollongong Hospital for further assessment and treatment of their symptoms. All other residents are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms such as a cough, nasal congestion and lethargy and are regarded as stable.
Where appropriate, and in consultation with their GPs, residents have commenced anti-viral medication and we are monitoring them closely as we care for them in their rooms.
We will continue with our ongoing testing regime to ensure early detection of any other cases. This involves testing residents in the affected areas every two-to-three days, as well as residents in other parts of the care centre who have been identified as close-contacts.
As I’ve explained previously, 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.
RSV update
Unfortunately, our resident in Rosella who was diagnosed with RSV earlier this month continues to be challenged by a range of symptoms.
We will continue to care for them in their room, and in consultation with their GP and family, as their health journey continues.
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. Please note: the P2/N95 mask and face shield must be worn at all times while inside the care centre – this includes residents’ rooms.
- 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.
Residents and Relatives Meeting minutes
Please click here to read the minutes from our Residents and Relatives Meeting held on 11 May 2023.
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
