5 January 2022

Dear Residents, Families and Friends,

I am writing to advise you that late this afternoon, I was informed that one staff member at our Harmony Village Home has tested positive to COVID-19.  For the protection of our residents and staff, Doutta Galla has activated its outbreak management plan.

Currently there are no residents showing symptoms of COVID-19 and we are reviewing the exposure.  Our staff continue in their unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest standard of infection control practices are in place, and we will continue with our enhanced cleaning protocols.  Staff have recommenced wearing full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when attending to residents, and residents will be encouraged to remain in their room to receive care and services.

As you know at the moment there is a high level of COVID activity around and Victoria has recorded an extraordinary number of cases today.  Regrettably this means that the possibility of exposure to the virus is growing, and it seems that for the short-term we will need to continually assess, review and respond according to the information and advice that we have at any particular time.  The formal advice we are receiving and the expectations around the actions we need to take are rapidly changing too.  This requires us to quickly modify and adapt how we respond.  We are working closely with the Goulbourn Primary Health Unit (GHU) in assessing the situation and until we have clear instructions from the (GHU), we will need to restrict visitations to the Home.

We will advise you immediately of any changes to you or your family member’s health status.  If you have an enquiry or concern about your family member you can call the Home on 5831 7921.  In addition, you are welcome to contact us via email at covid19questions@dgas.org.au

For more support and advice during this time, please reach out to OPAN (Older Persons Advisory Network) on 1800 237 981 or Elder Rights Advocacy Victoria on 1800 171 866.  They are available 6am-10pm, 7 days a week.

Thank you for your support, patience and understanding during this challenging time.

Yours sincerely,

Vanda Iaconese

CEO