‘Be respectful’: Ugly side of Covid testing prompts NSW Police response

A growing number of abusive incidents at Covid-19 testing sites will mean more police deployed to protect frontline health workers.

More police will patrol testing clinics. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Peter Lorimer

More police will be deployed to monitor Covid-19 testing centres across NSW following an increase in abuse and aggressive behaviour towards clinic workers.

A higher number of abusive incidents coincides with longer queues and waiting times as more people look to get tested leading into Christmas.

NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said anyone caught behaving in an offensive manner, abusing or assaulting NSW Health staff would be arrested.

“I want to encourage the community to be respectful and considerate of NSW Health staff who are working selflessly throughout the holiday period to ensure our community remains safe,” Mr Fuller said.

Covid-19 testing workers are facing higher levels of abuse and aggressive behaviour from the public as tempers run over. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Peter Lorimer

Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon said while most people were doing the right thing and behaving themselves, higher demand for tests required everyone to be patient and flexible.

“Be aware that you might be waiting in line for several hours and plan ahead for delays, especially if you’re in the car for an extended period during hot weather – keep yourself and others hydrated,” Mr Lanyon said.

“Traffic management plans have been put in place around testing sites to lessen the impact of increased numbers of people in stationary cars waiting to be tested – if a controller asks you to move on, it may be because you’re blocking a driveway or the testing site is closing for operational reasons.”

Those looking to get tested are advised to expect delays and plan accordingly, including preparing to spend potentially hours waiting in line. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Peter Lorimer

Health officials have advised the higher volume of tests being processed means results may not be available for up to 72 hours later, with most people receiving their result within 24-48 hours.

Requirements for people to get tested before travelling interstate have led to an increase in demand at border region clinics, with many struggling to keep up with the holiday surge.

Some clinics have been forced to unexpectedly close or change their hours due to the unexpected levels of demand.