12 September 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to provide you with an update about your loved one’s aged care centre as we manage the risk of COVID-19 transmission within the centre.
You will recall that I let you know last week that some residents of Flinders East wing of the care centre had been diagnosed with COVID-19 following PCR testing.
In response to this we implemented our outbreak management plan and began our regime of regular testing of other residents in Flinders East and West wings to ensure early detection. Residents in Flinders West were included in the process as some were considered close contacts of the residents in Flinders East.
Tests were carried out on Friday and again over the weekend, with results received so far confirming a further ten residents in Flinders East have the virus. Further tests will be conducted tomorrow. If your loved one returns a positive result staff will let you know by phone.
Most residents are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms such as a sore throat, cough and fever and are being encouraged to remain in their rooms along with all other residents in Flinders East to ensure we minimise the risk of transmission. In consultation with their GPs all have been prescribed anti-viral medication.
The Lifestyle team continues to provide one on one support, assisting with escorted walks and other activities; and meals are being served in resident rooms.
Visiting arrangements – Flinders East and West
While there is still a risk of COVID-19 transmission in both wings, visiting residents there is discouraged. However if you do wish to visit the arrangements outlined below apply.
- Residents are permitted 2 visitors only by appointment.
- No children under the age of 12 years are permitted to visit.
- All visitors are asked to show proof of a negative rapid antigen test before entering the care centre.
- All visitors are asked to wear all necessary PPE at all times while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask and a face shield which will be provided on entry.
- Be aware of the risks. Those visiting a resident who is considered a close contact or is COVID-19 positive will also be asked to wear a gown and instructed on how to dispose of it safely.
- Please wear your PPE as instructed by staff. This is for your own protection and that of your loved one and all others living and working in the centre.
All other areas of the care centre
There are no changes to visiting in all other areas of the care centre.
Please note: If you are visiting after-hours and on the weekend, please be patient while waiting for staff to open the door. If they don’t respond immediately it is because they are caring for a resident, but will respond as soon as they are able.
If you have had COVID-19 you must not enter an aged care centre until 10 days has passed from your diagnosis day, and you have no symptoms.
Further to the above, please do not visit your loved one if you are experiencing any symptoms or are feeling unwell (even if you have a negative COVID-19 test result. You may still have influenza or another virus such as RSV 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
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
