By Romy Stephens
A staff member from an aged care home in Yarra Junction has tested positive to Covid-19.
Estia Health Yarra Valley confirmed an employee from its Yarra Junction home received a positive Covid-19 test and was now isolating at home.
In a statement, Estia Health said the employee had not worked at the aged care home since testing positive.
“As soon as management became aware of the positive result, the home immediately implemented our Covid-19 positive test response plan, including use of full PPE and employees following our strict infection control protocols,” the statement said.
“We are working closely with the Victorian DHHS Public Health Unit, the Commonwealth Department of Health and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission…including following their directions on restrictions on employees and the process for Covid-19 testing for all residents and employees.
“This is a difficult time for our residents and their families. We have added extra support to ensure that families are regularly updated about their loved ones.”
It is understood that Estia Health was informed of the positive test on 3 August and the employee last worked at the home on 29 July.
A relative of a resident at Estia Health, who did not want to be named, said they received a text message about 9.30am on 4 August informing of the confirmed Covid-19 case.
“My concern obviously is for my mum, I think everyone is terrified for that,” the relative said.
“Also did this staff member work at other aged care places? Because if that’s the case that would be pretty annoying, but I can understand why staff need to work between places because of the casualisation of workers.”
The relative said they were satisfied with the level of communication from the aged care and that they thought the staff were “wonderful” at Estia Health Yarra Valley.
The Department of Health and Human Services is also investigating cases linked to Lilydale Lodge Supported Residential Services.
