13 March 2023
Dear family member/resident representative,
Thank you for your patience as we continue to manage the risk of a gastroenteritis-like illness at your loved one’s aged care centre.
We have now received some pathology results back and we are currently waiting for a GP to review them. Over the weekend we had a number of residents reach the 48 hour symptom-free threshold meaning they are now considered recovered and no longer required to keep to their rooms.
Unfortunately, there have been some additional residents who have developed symptoms this morning. They live on Level 4 of the Flame Tree Building.
Given this is assumed to be a highly contagious illness, we highly recommend regular hand washing with soap and water for all who visit – it is more effective than hand-sanitiser for this type of illness.
We also continue to strongly encourage anyone with plans to visit to please reconsider. For anyone who does choose to proceed with a visit, they will do so with an understanding of the risk of the illness.
If you would like to connect with your loved one via phone or video call please let us know and our Lifestyle team will be pleased to assist.
Visiting arrangements
Although the virus causing the gastroenteritis-like symptoms is yet to be confirmed from laboratory analysis, it is assumed to be highly contagious. With this in mind you are strongly encouraged to reconsider any planned visit. If you do proceed with a visit please assist staff by complying with the following arrangements:
- 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 to complete the wellness questionnaire at reception on arrival.
- All visitors are asked to wear a P2/N95 mask when visiting and other PPE as directed by staff.
- If you are visiting a resident who is experiencing gastroenteritis-like symptoms staff will instruct you on the wearing of any additional PPE if required.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water – this is deemed more effective than hand-sanitiser for gastroenteritis-like viruses.
- 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.
More details on our visiting arrangements can be found here.
Further to the above, 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 type of infection 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 support.
Yours sincerely
Debbie Andrews
Operations Manager South East Sydney – Aged Care Centres
