COVID-19

Update 11th June 2021

Dear Residents, Family and Friends,

As the long weekend approaches NSW, QLD and Victoria all recorded no cases of community transmission today.

Influenza Vaccine 2021

ALL visitors and staff entering a residential aged care facility should provide evidence that they  have received a dose of the 2021 influenza vaccination. Please provide a copy for our Visitor Register as the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will look to review when they next visit.

This requirement was implemented in accordance with the advice from the Chief Health Officer and will be in place for the flu season from 1 June to 30 September 2021. Any exemptions for visitors and staff will need to be supported by a medical certificate and should be discussed with management. Visitors who cannot prove that they have received the flu vaccine for 2021 will NOT be permitted to enter any Columbia facility.

Consenting Residents have received their 2021 influenza vaccine with vaccination clinics completed onsite for Columbia staff. 

COVID-19 Vaccine 2021

Residents who provided consent have now received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. For Residents recently admitted or who now wish to receive the vaccine we are working with our Public Health Unit to see if we can access a roving clinic. If you or your loved one would like to be added to list of Residents wanting to be vaccinated please advise either the Registered Nurse on duty or Reception and we can arrange a consent form for you.

The risk of potential outbreaks of COVID-19 is ever-present. Vaccination remains the best way to prevent severe illness and death from COVID-19. The benefits of vaccination are many for the individual, as well as indirect benefits for the community. As at 10 June the Australian Government has confirmed a total of  5,641,008 vaccine doses have been administered.

All adults aged 40 and over are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine along with susceptible groups in the community. Check your eligibility  HERE and once you have completed the questionnaire you will be given a choice of local clinics near you. 

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccines, including translated resources, visit the Australian Government Department of Health website: 

www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines/learn-about-covid-19-vaccines

Columbia is actively encouraging ALL staff to get the COVID-19 vaccine along with all those connected to the most vulnerable in our community. Please speak with your GP or independent health professional to discuss anything regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.

With the colder weather this weekend please do not visit if you are feeling unwell. We acknowledge the importance of family and friends but for the safety of Residents, you and our staff, prevention is still our best defence.

Stay warm, stay safe. Tiffany