Update #7 – Outbreak 13.10.21

October 21, 2021

Dear Residents & Family members,

Re. Update #7 – Outbreak 13.10.21

Today is Day 12 and test day for the residents of Honeysuckle. It is the day that they are swabbed once more for Covid-19. So far, no resident across the facility has developed Covid-19 related symptoms which is indeed good news.

We should receive the results Friday morning and we will meet online again with the Health Authorities in the afternoon to discuss next steps regarding this outbreak. We hope to receive positive advice from the Health authorities and to be able to advise the outbreak is over.

Our residents in Honeysuckle are of course looking forward to what we hope will be freedom day for them. They are patient, remain upbeat and are enjoying the opportunity for individual one on one time with staff on the balconies in the fresh air.

With regards to visitation moving forward, visitation next week will continue to be by appointment and if the outbreak is declared over, priority will be given to the family members of the residents of Honeysuckle. We have appointments available so please ring Reception on (02) 4935 0300 to book a time.

Our Receptionists are being asked when we can receive visitors from Sydney. As you are aware, the government has announced that as of 1 November, the Greater Sydney region including Shellharbour, Wollongong, Blue Mountains and Central Coast will be able to travel to regional areas. Unfortunately, we have not been advised if this roadmap will apply to aged care so we wait for news on this and will advise as soon as we know something.

Another question being asked is about weekend visiting. As you would be aware management of visiting arrangements is resource intensive and the additional cost of staffing weekend visitation is a considered on how we proceed. We are also watching the local Covid case numbers with great anticipation. We await the news tomorrow and I will then meet with the team in due course to discuss visitation moving forward.

Again as per previous updates a friendly reminder, please do not attempt to visit us if you

• have the slightest cough or cold/flu like symptoms;
• have been contacted by NSW Health as a close or casual contact;
• are waiting for the results of a Covid test;
• have been in contact with a confirmed close contact who is waiting on a test result
• have not had both Vaccinations at least 14 days ago.
• are Under 12 years of age
• reside in or have visited Sydney Central, Coast Blue Mountains or any other known area of concern.

So, stay tuned for tomorrow – we hope to be able to bring you good news!

Thank you for your patience.

Yours sincerely,

Viv Allanson
CEO

Download 2021.10.21 #7 to residents and families