Visitors asked to wear masks at aged care home
A Woy Woy aged care home is asking all visitors to test for Covid and to wear a mask due to high levels of the virus in the community.
"We are seeing increases in respiratory illness, including Covid, amongst our residents," said Blue Wave Living chief executive Mr Matt Downie.
"While such illnesses are prevalent in the community, they invariably make their way in via visiting family and friends.
"I would encourage all to obtain up-to-date vaccinations for both influenza and Covid and, if in any way unwell, please defer visiting loved ones."
Mr Downie said Blue Wave residents "are much more susceptible to more severe outcomes from respiratory illness than younger persons'.
"While it is easy to be dismissive of mild symptoms such as a scratchy throat or a slight sniffle, it might be the precursor to a more serious respiratory illness including Covid."
Mr Downie said: "All our staff test daily and utilise personal protective equipment to help minimise risk.
"We do have ready access to antivirals, which have proven to be effective in minimising the impact of Covid, coupled with vaccination and solid infection control measures to reduce the risk.
"You will notice changes when visiting Blue Wave Living while we have active cases.
"We are also making changes to our Activities program to further minimise risk, and the Food Focus meeting will be postponed for a few weeks."
SOURCE:
Newsletter, 28 Jun 2024
Matt Downie, Blue Wave Living