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COVID-19 outbreaks in aged care facilities (ACFs) have serious consequences including widespread infection and deaths. We share our recent experience of managing a COVID-19 outbreak in an ACF in regional Queensland in May 2020.

This outbreak was part of an urgent public health response following notification of a confirmed case of COVID-19 in an ACF staff member. To stop potential spread, the facility was immediately locked down and a public health rapid response team (RRT) was mobilised to identify the possible source of infection and burden of disease.

A total of 115 ACF residents and 149 staff were tested for COVID-19 by nucleic acid testing (NAT). 102 residents were relocated to facilitate appropriate isolation for the duration of the outbreak. Stringent resident and staff movement restrictions and infection control measures were instated with compliance monitored closely by skilled infection control staff.

The investigation identified 39 residents and 44 staff as close contacts. Repeat NAT interval testing on all residents at day four, eight and 12 and if symptomatic was undertaken. Similarly, repeat testing of staff close contacts occurred if symptomatic and at completion of quarantine.

No further positive COVID-19 cases were identified, and the outbreak was declared over 15 days after the index case was reported. Given the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic, a low threshold for testing staff and residents with COVID-19 symptoms is recommended, along with immediate isolation and implementation of enhanced infection prevention strategies to minimise the risk of ongoing transmission in a high risk setting.

About Jacina

Jacina is an MAE Scholar completing her field placement with the Central Queensland Public Health Unit where she is working as a Public Health Nurse. Jacina has a particular interest in communicable diseases and has spent 15 years working in Infection Prevention and Control and 5 years as an experienced Public Health Nurse. Jacina is also passionate about adult education and has a background in teaching.