Under pressure: Testing facilities across Victoria are under strain as requirements change and case numbers soar.
Photo by
Megan Fisher.
Local COVID-19 testing availability has been under strain as statewide case numbers soar and testing requirements change.
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This has put pressure on testing services with long lines forming at PCR testing sites, some of which have forced some to close early due to high demand.
Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are also in short supply due to heavy demand, recent testing requirement changes and increased contact with cases.
Amcal Cobram pharmacist Paul Ukich, who has been selling tests at his pharmacy, said they have recently experienced “great demand” for the tests.
“It’s because of the entry requirements for holidays or returning home ... we’ve been inundated with requests,” he said.
“The supply was fairly good until the last week ... if the suppliers had them, we would get them but I doubt we’ll be able to get them.”
Mr Ukich asked those who were using RATs to follow directions and use them properly to ensure the most accurate result.
Hot commodity: Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are in short supply due to increased demand and low supply.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
NCN Health CEO Jacque Phillips said while there has been an increased demand on testing resources, the health service is working hard to support the community.
“We are aware that not every community member who has required a test has been able to secure an appointment the same day, but staff are working very hard to accommodate as many tests as possible,” she said.
She added with the increase in positive cases, it is important to remain calm and follow the latest health advice.
“It is important to remember the public health advice is in place to keep us safe,” Ms Phillips said.
“Our excellent vaccination rates, together with a number of public health measures, such as good hand hygiene, mask wearing and social distancing work together to keep COVID infections relatively low. Where we do have cases, they will mostly be mild.”
It comes as an outbreak at Irvin House Residential Aged Care emerges and an exposure site pops up at Cobram Medical Clinic.
One non-resident at Irvin House has tested positive, with all residents and their families contacted and residents isolating until the GV public health unit clears them.
Increased infection control measures are in place with extra PPE for staff provided, staff movement restricted and the facility closed to all visitors.
NCN Health is also managing an exposure at Cobram Medical Clinic after one person attended.
Two people have been identified as contacts and are monitoring for symptoms in line with directions from the GV public health unit.
Ms Phillips added the rules around testing and isolation have recently changed with the most updated information, including test reporting and isolation requirements, available at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/checklist.
Vaccinations are now available for children aged five to 11 years old as well as adult vaccines, which can be booked via 1800 675 398 or at www.portal.cvms.vic.gov.au/
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