Tullamore in the Parkes Shire will be the next location in the Western NSW Local Health District to be part of a new drive-through COVID-19 testing service.
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The mobile service will be available on Thursday, June 25 from 9am to 2pm.
"We are encouraging anyone in the Tullamore, Trangie, Tottenham and Trundle regions, who is displaying symptoms, even if they only have mild symptoms, to come and get tested," Director of Public Health, Priscilla Stanley said.
There are no known cases of COVID-19 in Tullamore, or in the district.
Tullamore is the seventh location in the southern sector to receive the service, with more than 91 people tested last week in Forbes and the service also visiting Oberon, Blayney, Molong, Rylstone and Wellington.
The trip to Tullamore will provide an additional opportunity for testing.
"Everyone tested last week came back negative, which is great. But we need to keep testing people, so we can stay on top of COVID-19 as the general restrictions around movement start to be decreased," Ms Stanley said.
"COVID-19 tests are always available through GPs and our hospitals. Our plan is for the mobile service to visit a number of smaller communities."
The testing service will be set up in the Tullamore Swimming Pool car park, with entry and exit via Haylock Street.
The service is free of charge and people don't need a referral or appointment to attend.
"It's a drive through service so you won't have to leave your car. Our staff will be able to come to you, do a short assessment and get your details, and then do a swab from the back of your throat and then the back of your nose," Ms Stanley said.
"The tests are then sent away for analysis which normally takes about 48 hours. If your test is negative, you can request to get those results by text message even faster.
"People who are tested are asked to self-isolate until they get their results."
COVID-19 testing is available for people who have experienced even mild symptoms that can be associated with the disease, Ms Stanley said.
Symptoms include fever, a sore or 'scratchy' throat, a cough, runny nose, shortness of breath, tiredness and muscle aches.
The Western NSW Local Health District has previously confirmed 45 people living in the district contracted the virus.
"The symptoms of COVID-19 can be very mild, so it's important that we increase our testing," Ms Stanley said.
"While most people who have COVID-19 will recover, some people can become very sick, particularly older people or people who are already ill. Sadly, 46 people have died in NSW from COVID-19, including one person from our district.
"Right now, our message is very simple - if you have any symptoms, even mild ones, arrange to be tested.
"Speak to your doctor - it's always best to call ahead.
"The Western Primary Health Network has set up respiratory clinics in Bathurst, Dubbo and Orange, with more to come in other centres. In Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo there are fever clinics set up at the hospital, and testing can also be arranged in all our other hospitals," she said.
"If you have any questions or concerns you can ring the National Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 020 080 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222."
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