19 September 2021

Dear Resident, Families and Friends,

I am writing to advise you that early this morning I received notification that a family member of one of our staff at our Avondale Heights Home has tested positive to COVID-19.  The staff member is fully vaccinated.  At this time there are no staff or residents who have COVID-19 symptoms.

For the ongoing protection of our residents and staff, Doutta Galla has activated its emergency management plan as a precautionary response.  The last round of regular testing of staff which occurred on 14 September 2021 all returned negative results.

Our staff have been trained to ensure the highest standard of infection control practices are in place.  Staff have already commenced wearing full personal protective equipment (PPE) and we will continue with our enhanced cleaning protocols.

Residents and staff will be COVID-19 tested today as a precaution and residents will be closely monitored.  We will be encouraging residents at Avondale Heights to remain in their rooms as much as possible, with support from our staff.  We will continue to monitor the situation and will review our next steps following the results of today’s testing.

Fortunately, most residents and staff at our Avondale Heights Home have been fully vaccinated.  As you know vaccination is a key strategy to defeating this virus and Doutta Galla encourages you and your families who are yet to be vaccinated to consider being vaccinated.  You can click here to Book your vaccine appointment | Coronavirus Victoria.

Additional staff have been brought into the home as we continue to support the wellbeing of our residents.  You can connect via video calls and window visits.  Please contact the home to make a time to have a video call or to set up a window visit.

We will advise you immediately of any changes to your or your family member’s health status however if you have an enquiry or concern about your family member, please call Avondale Heights Home on 03 9325 0000.  In addition, we have an email address where you can send any questions, comments or concerns related to COVID-19.  The email address is covid19questions@dgas.org.au.

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