More than 800 people were tested for COVID-19 in just six days at a pop-up testing clinic established at Woy Woy Hospital in the lead-up to Christmas.
Central Coast Local Health District Acting Chief Executive, Kate Lyons, said testing was a vital part of stopping the spread of the virus and keeping loved ones safe.
“The Woy Woy Hospital COVID-19 pop-up clinic operated from December 19-24 in response to confirmed COVID-19 cases on the Central Coast, which were linked to the Avalon cluster,” she said.
“The pop-up clinic tested 876 people.
“Across all Central Coast COVID-19 public and private testing centres, during the week ending December 19, 4,676 tests were conducted – a rate of 13.3 per 1,000 population.
“This then increased to 11,781 tests – or 33.4 per 1,000 population – the following week, following confirmation of the first Central Coast case on December 18.”
Lyons said CCLHD continued to urge anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms, no matter how mild, to get tested immediately.
“People with confirmed COVID-19 are known to experience a broad range of flu-like symptoms including fevers, coughing, a sore throat, shortness of breath, a runny nose, loss of taste, and loss of smell,” she said.
“If you experience any symptoms, no matter how mild, please come forward for testing immediately, then isolate until you receive a negative result.
“Testing is quick, free, and easy.
“As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve across NSW, it is important that Central Coast residents remain vigilant.
“In addition to testing, we can continue to protect our loved ones and community by remembering to practise physical distancing, wearing masks in key indoor settings and while using public transport, and washing our hands regularly.”
Source:
Media release, Jan 14
Central Coast Local Health District