COVID-19 Update – 14 January

Blue Haven Illawarra has extended the lockdown of its residential aged care home until 25 January in response to the latest COVID-19 surge.

CEO Jane Stroud said having the lockdown during summer holidays was difficult for residents and their loved ones, but essential to ensure the health and safety of our residents, visitors and staff.

“I can assure family and friends that our residents continue to be well cared for and supported,” Ms Stroud said.

“We are also allowing families access in critical situations.”

“While our residents are all in their rooms as part of our safety procedures, we have redesigned the activities program to allow as much interaction as possible.”

There are currently two residents with confirmed cases of COVID-19 and approximately 40 staff have tested positive or are close contacts and isolating.

More than 70 per cent of residents are triple-vaccinated.

All staff are double vaccinated and are being rapid antigen tested before they start their shifts.

Ms Stroud said while the on-site roll-out of booster shots to staff has been halted due to the lockdown, they were now being directed to the mass vaccination hub in Wollongong.

“A lot of care and hard work is going into ensuring not only the health and safety of everyone at Blue Haven, but that despite the disruptions, we have the appropriate level of staffing to properly support our residents.”

“I want to thank our residents, family and friends for their calmness and patience during this stressful time.”

“I also want to thank every single one of the Blue Haven staff for their efforts to ensure the people who rely on us continue to get the very best of help despite the challenges we are facing.”

Family and friends with questions or concerns can contact Blue Haven on (02) 4203 4055.