Strict new regulations for aged-care facilities

NEW restrictions have come into place in Toowoomba and across Queensland for people wanting to visit loved ones in aged-care facilities.

Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the measures yesterday, saying anyone who had returned from overseas in the past 14 days, those who had been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case, or those with fever or symptoms or acute respiratory infection, or who hadn’t been vaccinated for influenza after May 1, would be banned from entering aged care facilities.

Ms Palaszczuk said visits from people who did not fall into the former category should be limited to a short duration, and that visits would be limited to a maximum of two visitors at one time per day.

“These may be immediate social supports, family members, close friends or professional service or advocacy workers,” she said.

“Visits should be conducted in a resident’s room, outdoors or in a specific area designated by the facility, rather than communal areas where the risk of transmission to other residents is greater.

“There should be no large group visits or gatherings, including social activities or entertainment, to be permitted at this time.”

Ms Palasczuk said no school groups or baby groups of any size should be allowed to visit aged-care facilities, and that visitors should be encouraged – as all Australians are – to practise social distancing where possible.

“Children aged 16 years or less should be visiting only by exception, as they generally won’t necessarily follow the hygiene measures all the time like adults will and children can be asymptomatic,” she said.

“In cases of end of life, very tough decisions will have to be made, and rules will have to be done on a facility-by-facility basis, as everybody understands that this is an incredibly personal family time and the intention is not to restrict family during those times.”