NSW Health has updated its guidance to aged care facilities – with a caution.

Under the new advice, masks are no longer necessary in all aged care homes.

However, all staff who work, live in, or have visited areas with increased testing – currently Camden LGA, Liverpool LGA and Lakemba – in the last 14 days should wear surgical masks when in the facility, including when caring for residents and where physical distancing (1.5m) from other people cannot be maintained. Masks should also be worn while on breaks.

Any visitors who have been in these areas with increased testing must still wear a mask while in the facility, and be escorted by staff when going to and from a resident’s room or visiting area.

Providers are also asked to plan for all staff to wear surgical masks in case it is recommended in the future because of an increased risk of community transmission in the local area – a possibility given the Victorian warning (see this story).