BATHURST residents are being urged to come forward for COVID-19 testing, even if they are experiencing only mild flu symptoms.
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Western NSW Local Health District chief executive Scott McLachlan said it was important to confirm all cases of COVID-19 in the community.
"It's very likely there are some people in our community who have COVID-19 but have symptoms that are mild enough that they haven't really noticed or been too concerned," he said.
"We need those people to be tested so we can support them, reduce the potential for COVID-19 spreading, and to better understand just how prevalent the disease is.
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"The symptoms ... can be very much like those you might experience with a cold or hay fever - a sore or scratchy throat, a cough, shortness of breath, or fever.
"If you have those symptoms, or have experienced them in the last couple of weeks, we want you to ask about being tested."
There are two free testing clinics in Bathurst - the fever clinic in the heritage building at Bathurst Base Hospital and respiratory clinic at Ochre Health Care on the grounds of Charles Sturt University.
Mr McLachlan said the WNSWLHD was also working on establishing a mobile testing service.
"If you're unsure of whether you should be tested, or where to go, contact the Western Public Health Helpline on 1300 066 055," he said.
The test involves taking swabs from the back of your nose and throat. It isn't painful and only takes a couple of minutes. Those swabs are then sent away for testing.
"It's important to remember that for most people, COVID-19 will be a mild illness - but for older people, or people who are already sick, it has the potential to be very serious," Mr McLachlan said.
"So far across (the western) district there have been around 5000 people tested since the start of the pandemic, with 45 cases confirmed, none of which remain active under care in the community or hospital.
"We all also need to continue to practice good social distancing. Just because there are no active cases doesn't mean that COVID-19 isn't in our community, or that we're 'safe'."
For more information, contact healthdirect online or 1800 022 222, or the Western Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055.
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