Get tested: Testing rates drop as Sydney infections climb

It’s no time to be complacent as health officials urge testing for even minor symptoms, and to follow the rules.

As the Covid rates continue to climb in Sydney, local health officials are urging local residents not to be complacent about testing for the virus locally.

According to the Northern NSW Local Health District, from July 4 to July 10 there were 3,280 COVID-19 tests conducted among residents of Northern NSW Local Health District, compared to 5,861 two weeks ago.

“As the current situation evolves, we strongly encourage people to present for testing at the first sign of a respiratory or cold-like illness, such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever or headache,” Acting Chief Executive, Northern NSW Local Health District Lynne Weir said.

“Once you have been tested, go straight home and self-isolate until you receive a negative result.”

Ms Weir said there were many testing options available in Northern NSW, and more than 400 across the State.

BYRON BAY, AUSTRALIA – NewsWire Photos March 30, 2021: QML Pathology Medical staff test drivers and passengers at the pop up Covid Testing site at Cavanbah Sports Ground, Ewingsdale Road Byron Bay.Picture: NCA NewsWire / Scott Powick

People in the Northern Rivers area advised to continue to adhere to the current restrictions in regional NSW, which are:

• no more than 5 visitors at any one time at your house
• wear a mask when in non-residential indoor areas, or using public transport, hire vehicles, taxis and rideshare services and remain seated when consuming alcohol in an indoor area of non-residential premises in NSW.
• venues must adhere to capacity limits of 1 person per 4 square metres, or 25 people, whichever is greater
• continue to check-in using the QR codes when attending businesses or premises outside the home.
• Further details of these and other measures are available via the Service NSW app
• and https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules/what-you-can-do-nsw

Ms Weir said that people should not visit the Greater Sydney area unless you have a reasonable excuse.

“Any person who travels back to their home in regional NSW from Greater Sydney

must stay-at-home for 14 days after leaving Greater Sydney,” she said.

“This means they must follow the same rules that apply in Sydney by only leaving their home without a reasonable excuse.”

These exemptions are essential shopping only, only go to work/education if this cannot be done from home, outdoor exercise, emergency/medical care.