Kindred Living’s Annie Lockwood Court aged care facility is reportedly the site of a scabies outbreak, but there is contention around its size.
The Whyalla News reports eight patients at the facility, roughly 380km northwest of Adelaide, had been infected, citing a whistle-blower who says problems at the facility have been ongoing.
Kindred Living responded, confirming one resident at the facility had tested positive in October, which prompted the remaining residents to be tested as a precautionary measure.
“Three of the eight residents have other diagnosed chronic skin conditions such as dermatitis which presents similar to scabies,” they said.
“Two of these residents have been confirmed as not having scabies by their GP and specialist.”
Kindred Living CEO Juanita Walker disputed the notion that the facility had an ongoing problem.
“Scabies is highly contagious and if it had been present in the small cottage for two-and-a-half years, then it would have spread to other areas of the residential facility because our staff work in all areas of the facility,” she said.
The outbreak is reportedly being investigated by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC).
