4 January 2022 | View in Browser
 
 
Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Update for Residents and Families
 

Dear Resident Family Member,

Positive COVID-19 exposures identified at Calvary Cessnock Retirement Community

I am writing to inform you that two (2) fully vaccinated members of staff have tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19) at Calvary Cessnock. The staff members worked in the Kalingo and Hebburn lodges while infectious.

For the safety of residents and staff, the Kalingo and Hebburn households will need to be closed to visitors until the Hunter New England Public Health Unit has deemed it safe to reopen. All other lodges within Calvary Cessnock remain open to visitors, subject to these guidelines.

Families of the Kalingo and Hebburn lodges have now been contacted and we will continue to keep these families updated as we receive updates on the situation.

We understand that this will be worrying for you and your loved ones in our care. We want to assure you that we are doing everything possible to continue to look after the health and wellness of all our residents while keeping them safe during this difficult time.

Residents in Kalingo and Hepburn households

Unfortunately at this time, the residents in these two lodges must remain in, and be cared for in their rooms.

PCR testing of Kalingo and Hebburn residents has now been completed in line with Public Health Unit advice, and we are now waiting on these results to be returned. Given the continuing high demand for community testing, we are unfortunately not able confirm a timeframe for when we will receive the results.

We will notify residents and families immediately of these results as they are made available.

We understand that it is very difficult for residents to be cared for in their rooms and not have visitors during this special time of year. Please be assured that our team will continue to ensure the holistic care needs of all residents are met and calls and video conferencing is available for loved ones to remain in contact.

Visitation exceptions may be made for residents receiving end of life care, or who may be experiencing distress, or where a special care and support role is provided. Please speak with the manager of your home to discuss arrangements.

Residents in other Cessnock households

Residents of all other households are permitted visitors as usual.

In line with Calvary’s recent visitor update dated 29 December 2021, one single nominated visitor will be permitted per resident during the home’s visiting hours, due to the heightened risk of infection and consistent with the latest government directives. This will be in place until further notice.

For more information and regular situation updates, please visit www.calvarycoronavirusupdates.org.au 

Please be assured that our staff have prepared for COVID-19 exposures and outbreaks. Our staff are trained in strict infection control procedures and are focusing all of their attention on the individual care needs of residents.

We are also committed to ensuring that you are provided with the information you want – quickly and regularly. You can help us to ease anxiety by sharing this information with other family and friends.

Sincerely,

Bryan McLoughlin

Regional CEO – NSW & QLD