Coronavirus Update – for the Vasey RSL Care Community

– 5 March 2020 – 

The Corona Virus – COVID-19

Over the past few weeks, there has been increasing concern about a new virus which originated in China, called Corona Virus or COVID-19. We are aware that concern is growing among our own community here at Vasey RSL Care and we would like to reassure you that we are closely monitoring the situation and are being guided by the federal Department of Health (DoH) and the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), as well as aged care industry bodies such as ACSA and LASA. 

In early February, we carried out a thorough check of all staff to identify any who had recently visited mainland China. Our check uncovered no staff in this situation. However, one staff member has a partner who had recently returned from China, and to exercise extreme caution, this staff member was asked to stay away for a period of 14 days. At time of writing, this same procedure has been extended to include Iran, South Korea and Italy, and as informed by DoH, will be extended further as required.

As at all times, we have a comprehensive Infection Prevention and Control system in place. In the case of an outbreak of any contagious disease, as with influenza for example, our Outbreak Management Plan will be initiated. Furthermore, as we continue to monitor the wider situation, we are ready to act on any instructions from the DoH.

Information has been displayed at all our residential homes to inform visitors about COVID-19 and to ask for your support and cooperation in minimising the risk of spread.

Washing Hands

We encourage everyone to remember to thoroughly and regularly wash their hands. This simple procedure is one of the most effective ways to decrease the risk of spreading infection.

If you Feel Unwell Do NOT Visit

If there is even the slightest chance that you have a virus, please do not visit. We understand how important your visits are to your loved one, but as you know, many of our residents are vulnerable and as we age, the effectiveness of our immune systems drops. Viruses, such as influenza, and very likely COVID-19, are more serious for older people.

Special Restrictions

If you have visited overseas or think you may have come in contact with a confirmed case of Coronavirus, special restrictions apply to you and you must not visit any of our aged care sites.

14 Day Incubation

The Coronavirus has an incubation period of 14 days during which you may not know if you have caught it.

If you have been in contact with anyone among your friends or family who has been unwell, you must stay away for a minimum of 14 days, until the incubation period has finished.

More Information

If you would like to find out more about COVID-19, visit the Department of Health’s website. 

Alternatively, can call the Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080 (available 24 x 7).

To speak to a registered nurse about your health concerns, call the Healthdirect Hotline on 1800 022 222 (24 x 7).

We will continue to do all we can to minimise the risk of this virus to our community and will keep you informed of any new procedures or requirements that are put in place by the DoH.