The Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) drive-through COVID-19 testing will be visiting Peak Hill (at Lindner Oval on Boori Street) on Wednesday September 2 from 10am to 2pm.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
"There are currently no known cases of COVID-19 in Peak Hill. WNSWLHD has tested more than 15,758 people over the past four weeks," said Director of Public Health, Priscilla Stanley.
"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.
"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," said Ms Stanley.
The service is free of charge, and you 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.
"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," said Ms Stanley.
COVID-19 testing is available for people who have experienced even mild symptoms that can be associated with the disease. Those symptoms include: fever, a sore or 'scratchy' throat, a cough, runny nose, shortness of breath, tiredness and muscle aches.
"The symptoms of COVID-19 can be very mild, so it's important that we increase our testing.
"While most people who have COVID-19 will recover, some people can become very sick, particularly older people or people who are already ill.
"Right now, our message is very simple - if you have any symptoms, even mild ones, arrange to be tested," says Ms. Stanley.
Speak to your doctor - and 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 also fever clinics set up at the hospital, and testing can also be arranged in all our other hospitals.
If you have any questions or concerns you can ring the National Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 020 080 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.