15 July 2021

Dear valued Doutta Galla client,

It is unfortunate that the recent serious community outbreak in Sydney has found its way to Melbourne and specifically to the western suburbs of Melbourne.   The Victorian Government has updated the Tier 1, 2 and 3 exposure sites following a confirmed case of COVID having visited these sites since 8 July 2021. It is important that everyone is aware of these exposure sites and follows the rules accordingly.  As always, our focus, is and will continue to be, taking care of our clients, our staff on the frontline and our Doutta Galla community.

There are several strategies in place to minimise the risk and spread of the virus. These include following COVID safe advice published by Government Health Departments regarding mask wearing, hand hygiene, social distancing and being vaccinated.

The vaccination program is one of the key steps towards emerging from the pandemic environment. Doutta Galla encourages clients and families who are yet to be vaccinated to consider being vaccinated.

We understand that some clients and families may be reluctant due to confusing information about the risks associated with the COVID-19 vaccine.  I urge you to reconsider and speak with your GP about your or your family member’s specific circumstances.

Doutta Galla staff have been encouraged to receive the vaccination as a way of providing protection to themselves their families and our residents.  It will be mandatory for all aged care staff to have had at least their first vaccination by 17 September 2021.

Please contact the Home Care Coordinator if you have any questions or concerns.  In addition, you are welcome to contact us via the email address covid19questions@dgas.org.au.

As a reminder, all my general communications, including previous letters from me, are available on the Doutta Galla website at https://www.dgas.org.au/coronavirus-updates/ and can be accessed at any time.

If you or your family would like more support during this time, please reach out to OPAN (Older Persons Advisory Network) on 1800 237 981.  They are available 6am-10pm, 7 days a week.  The other organisation that can assist you is Elder Rights Advocacy Victoria who can be reached on 1800 171 866 for support and advice.

Yours sincerely,

Vanda Iaconese

CEO