THE influenza outbreak gripping Mount Gambier’s largest aged care provider has eased with no new cases being confirmed at two of its sites in recent days.
A number of recent swabs taken have returned negative to influenza A, which means it appears the outbreak at Boandik has been contained.
The Lake Terrace and Crouch Street sites appear to be clear of the contagious infection.
This follows 55 residents across the two sites having or being suspected of contracting influenza over the past two weeks.
While no deaths have been directly linked with influenza, the sudden death of one resident has been referred to the coroner by the family.
Boandik chief executive officer Gillian McGinty conceded it was a relief the crisis was over, but warned people not to go into aged care homes if they had any signs of a respiratory illness.
This warning comes with health authorities stating the flu season may continue to linger for another 12 weeks.
“We are hoping it is the end of the outbreak, but we are still taking precautions,” Ms McGinty told The Border Watch yesterday.
“The restrictions on visiting and the transmission-bases precautions have now been lifted, but we will continue to monitor all residents and implement precautions if necessary.”
According to the manager, there are now only three residents from Crouch Street and two at Lake Terrace recovering from influenza.
She called on people to be vigilant about visiting aged care homes to prevent another flu outbreak.
Ms McGinty revealed the communal areas at Lake Terrace were opened up late last week for residents, which was a positive development.
“This was great news for our residents and their families,” Ms McGinty said.
“A huge thank you to residents, families and the community for your co-operation, without this we may not have cleared the infection within this timeframe.”
Ms McGinty also thanked the staff for their dedication, support and for working additional shifts.
The flu spread across the two sites despite all permanent residents being vaccinated against the flu.
