Big rise in COVID testing over holiday period

Testing numbers for COVID-19 rose dramatically on the Coast over the pre- and post-Christmas holiday period, with more than 12,000 people being tested region-wide during the week ending December 26 alone.

Central Coast Local Health District Acting Chief Executive, Kate Lyons, thanked all residents who presented for testing and reinforced the need for continued vigilance.

“We all play an important role in stopping the spread of the virus and testing is a crucial part of keeping our loved ones safe,” Lyons said.

“There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 on the Central Coast.”

Lyons said there was an increase in testing numbers across the region following confirmation of the Avalon cluster and associated Central Coast cases in December.

“In December 2020, the Gosford Hospital COVID-19 clinic tested 2,283 people,” she said.

“In January 2021, there have been 674 people tested so far at the hospital testing clinic.

“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.

“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 1000 population – the following week, following confirmation of the first Central Coast case on December 18.

“During the week ending January 2, 6,644 tests were conducted – 18.8 per 1000 population.”

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.”

Source:
Media release, Jan 14
Central Coast Local Health District