Hello to you all,
This is an update on the COVID 19 outbreak at Abel Tasman Village. As at this morning, 25/1/22, there are two residents who have tested positive. There have been no further positive cases in residents since our last update to you on Thursday 21st January. Both residents are showing only mild symptoms and we are looking to release them from isolation over the weekend. Residents identified as close contacts have been tested via PCR and rapid antigen test and all have tested negative which is great news.
We met today with the Public Health Unit and other Government representatives. They are very happy with the situation as it stands. They have requested that close contact residents be tested by rapid antigen tests again next Monday 31st January and we will meet with them again on Tuesday 1st February. We are hoping at that meeting that this mini outbreak will be declared over.
We have been advised by the Outbreak Management Huddle that visiting can recommence on Thursday 27th January (as this is day 8 from the initial resident testing positive). Bookings for visits will be made available from later on this afternoon and can be accessed through our website. At this stage, we will be opening for visiting only in the afternoon from 2pm to 5pm in the short term but for 7 days per week.
Visitors are reminded that a negative PCR result taken up to 72 hours prior to your visit or a negative rapid antigen test taken 24 hours prior to your visit will be required to enter the Village. Please note that rapid antigen testing will not be permitted to be performed on site at ATV to minimize any risk of potential exposure. This means you will need to perform your rapid antigen test before arriving at ATV.
We understand the difficulties currently being experienced in relation to PCR testing and also the purchase of rapid antigen tests. If you are unable to comply with the testing requirements due to the inability to get a PCR or rapid antigen test, please delay your booking and contact us as we may be able to assist you. Please do not make a booking and arrive with no test result. Unfortunately, this will mean that you will not be able to enter the Village.
Visitors will also be required to wear a P2 or N95 mask during their entire visit. This is a Public Health Unit direction. If you are unable to purchase a supply of P2 or N95 masks, we may be able to assist you on a one off occasion but our stock is limited and must be kept available for staff.
Strict hand hygiene protocols must be followed. There are hand sanitizer stations and hand washing facilities throughout the Village. Please sanitize as you enter the Village and regularly during your visit. If you notice any station is running low on sanitizer please let us know.
Please do not visit if you are feeling uwell or exhibiting any symptoms as this strain of the virus appears to be extremely infectious.
We will be reviewing the visitor protocols each week, always with the safety of our residents as the utmost priority. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.