Six deaths reported during influenza outbreak at aged care facility in Whitianga
Written by John Grant on February 12, 2024
Six residents from an aged care residential facility in Whitianga have passed away during an outbreak of Influenza that occurred at the Whitianga residential care centre between 28 January and 8 February this year.
The property is owned and operated by Oceanic Healthcare and their spokesperson; Shirley Ross, Director of Clinical and Care Services for Oceanic Healthcare, told CFM that 6 of the 44 residents had sadly passed away with flu symptoms during the period of the outbreak. In addition to residents, many staff working at the facility also contracted influenza. In total 28 staff and residents suffered from influenza during the period of the outbreak. Approximately 50 staff that includes registered nurses and healthcare workers alongside cleaners and kitchen staff work at Whitianga Care Centre and Village.
From the time the first resident was identified with influenza type symptoms, the facility went into a pre-determined plan to manage such an outbreak. The Public Health service was immediately notified, and the Care Centre and Village was placed in lockdown requiring staff to wear PPE gear.
Family and friends of the residents were notified of the situation and some residents opted to return to family homes during the lockdown.
No resident or staff member is currently in hospital with influenza.
CFM has also approached Te Whata Ora for comment.
Picture: Oceanic Healthcare Website
