| Dear FECCA friends, I plead with you and urge you to ensure Government health directions are strictly followed in light of the outbreak of COVID-19 at St Basil’s Homes for the Aged in Melbourne’s north. The St Basil’s Homes facility operates under the auspices of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and cares for 150 residents. Fifty-one cases of COVID-19 had been recorded in the aged care home Tuesday, up from 13 the day before. These are alarming numbers for the Greek community and we must prepare and be vigilant to avoid similar outbreaks elsewhere. Infection control protocols at the facility are being reviewed and strengthened by health authorities. All Aged Care facilities with an active case of COVID-19 are receiving support from the Australian Government (Department of Health and Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission), including a single case manager, access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), testing in residential aged care facilities, and access to surge workforce and supplementation. The outbreak shows the need to reinforce guidelines, especially for those who are vulnerable or in contact with vulnerable people. Please encourage your family and friends to observe the following: - Practice physical distancing, especially around the elderly
- If you are unwell, stay at home and get tested for COVID-19
- If you are ordered to self-isolate, you must complete the full 14 day isolation
- Wear a mask or face covering
If community members have challenges accessing services for older persons, Older Peoples Advocacy Network (OPAN) can help to advocate on their behalf. Our Victorian member the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria (ECCV) will also be able to help. Everyone has a responsibility to ensure our communities stay safe. Thank you for looking after our most vulnerable in the community and for heeding the advice from health authorities. Sincerely, Mary Patetsos Chairperson Useful resources: | 
