Staying safe from COVID-19
As COVID-19 restrictions have somewhat eased, it may seem that everyday life is getting a little more normal by the day. While this is welcome, it is important that we all stay vigilant at this time. Letting down our guard now can put ourselves, and others, at risk of COVID-19.
The COVID-19 virus still remains a real threat in our communities and at times, we may experience rising case numbers and heightened risk due to the virus circulating in our local communities. The good news is that we can all continue to take simple steps to keep ourselves, and those around us we love, safe.
While many of us may have experienced ‘pandemic fatigue’, it is important that we tackle this, in the best interests of everyone. As aged care employees, we have the privilege of caring for some of the most valuable people in our communities, but unfortunately, our elders are most at risk of serious illness from the virus. We have all fought so hard to keep these beautiful people safe, and our fight must not stop now.
Staying committed to following COVID-safe principles in your daily life will help to keep you and those around you, including Whiddon residents and employees, safe. All of us have a personal responsibility to ensure that we are following relevant precautionary measures and protecting each other.
Staying mindful of our surroundings is important, as is following safety measures such as social distancing and good hand hygiene. Why not consider a mask when going out and about? While masks may not be mandatory in some environments, they offer a good layer of protection against the virus. We must keep in mind that the virus can strike anyone at any time, so adding layers of protection into our daily lives is key.
Remember to stay away from others if you are unwell, and avoid contact with people who unwell. Some of the simplest actions can be the biggest steps we can take to slow the spread. One of the things we call all do is remember to stop and think – are my actions putting me or someone I love at risk? If they are, think about a more COVID-safe approach to your activity or catch-up. It will be worth it.
One of the best things we can all do is have our COVID-19 booster vaccine as soon as possible. As you may know, the booster vaccine has now been mandated for aged care employees. For NSW, the mandate date is 12 April, however, we do encourage you to have your booster as soon as you are eligible to do so. For QLD, it has now been communicated that the booster vaccine mandate will come into effect from 31 March for employees working in residential aged care who are eligible to have the vaccine booster.
Please know there is support available. It’s been a difficult few years as we have all had to navigate through the pandemic, within the vulnerable environment of an aged care setting, while also juggling our own personal challenges. It’s really important that we all take time to refresh and take care of ourselves, so we can continue our fight against COVID-19.
If you need to speak with someone, you can call our Employee Assistance Line (EAP) on 1300 818 720, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for free confidential phone counselling. We also encourage you to speak with your Manager, who is there to offer support.
So in summary, to keep you and our residents and clients safe:
- Wear a mask in busy areas
- Get your booster shot
- Socially distance
- Practice good hand hygiene
- Stay at home if you are unwell
- Get your booster
Let’s keep the gloves on and continue our fight against COVID-19. We’re champions in caring, so let’s not give up now – we’ve got this team Whiddon!