18 July 2022
Good morning family and friends,
I am writing to advise that we have received Jacaranda and Bluegum’s day 9 PCR results, and they have all returned negative. So, the good news is we can welcome back visiting in the Lodge from tomorrow, Tuesday 19 July 2022.
Unfortunately, we have had a resident test positive to covid in Honeysuckle, which means Honeysuckle is now in full isolation with the staff in full PPE. All residents in Honeysuckle have had a PCR test today and we will monitor the outcome of the results. Unfortunately, there will be no general visiting for Honeysuckle. Family members who would normally provide care for their loved one or those supporting a palliating resident continue to enter the building to continue their caring and support roles.
For the Manor (excluding Honeysuckle) and the Lodge we have the following requirements:
- Visitors will be required to wear a Surgical Mask always covering the mouth and Nose. This means NO eating or drinking during your visit.
- Two Vaccinated adults may visit with a child 2 years and under within the resident’s room between 10am and 4:30pm on weekdays. No appointment necessary. There are no weekend visits at this time however we will assess again at the beginning of next week. The entry screening requirements are evidence of a Negative RAT and check in using Coolguard in the Manor reception. If you have recently had Covid please bring your medical evidence for RAT exemption. If you are showing any signs or symptoms, please do not visit Maroba until you are well.
- Outside visiting for up to 2 Vaccinated adults and 2 children. Children aged 12 and over must have received 2 Covid vaccinations. A surgical Mask must be worn throughout the visit and all attending including children, must be checked in using Coolguard in the Manor reception. Appointments required for all outside visits. Ph. 49350300
- The requirement for evidence of a Negative RAT continues if you are taking a resident out. It is highly recommended that other family attending a gathering with a Maroba resident to also undertake a RAT. A record of who attends such a gathering should be kept by the host in the event of a positive case emerging. If you have a negative RAT test but still don’t feel 100%, please delay your visit or outing
- Register your intention to leave the facility using the online Excursion form at least 48 (business hours) before the outing. All residents can leave the facility (except Honeysuckle residents) whilst following Covid safe measures and remember the person completing the form is fully responsible for the safety of the resident whilst away from the facility.
- Remember you must observe the green tick on Coolguard before proceeding. Check with a staff member if you have any issues with the Coolguard check-in. Also, double check that the correct name has come up to ensure a valid check in so that if contact tracing is required, we are on the front foot not running behind.
As you are aware through the media there has been some changes in visiting restrictions. One of these is in relation to people visiting the facility who are unvaccinated. Maroba have decided to manage this by a case-by-case basis. The executive team will determine the outcome for each individual case. It is important we continue to manage and minimise our risks to reduce any potential impacts on residents and staff.
The NSW Health are saying “the best way you can protect yourself from serious illness or worse is to get every vaccination that is available to you”. All consenting and eligible residents have had their 4th vaccination and now this is available to the staff, an on-site clinic has been scheduled for 2 August 2022.
The media and health professionals have highlighted we are at the beginning of the next wave and the expected increase in community transmissions. The likely peak will be late July or early August. We are already seeing an increase in exposures, so we encourage you to commence wearing your masks again when you are out and about.
Please stay vigilant with your hand hygiene, social distancing and please avoid coming to Maroba if you have any symptoms.
We appreciate your support and assistance in keeping the Maroba Community safe and well.
Stay safe and well.
Yours sincerely,
Tracy Walker – General Manager Operations