Stawell community comes out to get tested after COVID-19 scare

A Victoria Police spokesperson said a person from a COVID-19 classified red zone attended the Stawell Police foyer in the past seven days.

A spokesperson from Stawell Regional Health said the community stepped up to do the right thing.

"We want to acknowledge everyone at our health service who was ready to step up and put the necessary arrangements in place for performing a significant increased amount of testing; and for preparing suitable isolation and treatment options if that would've been required," they said.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"We also want to say a big thank you to all community members who the right thing in coming forward for testing over the weekend - we were keen and proud to provide the service locally for you."

Over Saturday, August 20, and Sunday, August 22 as well as Monday, August 23, there was a "daily constant flow of requests."

The spokesperson said the figures were similar to previous scares in the region.

At East Grampians Health Service, chief executive Andrew Freeman said they saw an increase in tests over the weekend and Monday.

"East Grampians Health Service COVID-19 Swab Clinic staff have carried out approximately 200 swabs over the past four days, which is a significant increase on the normal number of swabs carried out at this time," he said.

"Thank you to the community for coming forward in such large numbers this week, you are helping to ensure you protect your families and the community.

"The outbreak across Victoria once again highlights the importance of people coming forward for a swab no matter how minor your symptoms are."

Stawell Regional Health will soon have a dedicated COVID-19 clinic.

"We are also in the process of finalising a more permanent drive-through facility as part of our new dedicated COVID clinic," the spokesperson said.

"This will allow for our community to come for tests without having to make an appointment. This will allow for 'business as normal' to continue uninterrupted."

Health officials ask that people come forward if you experience any symptoms, even if only mild.

Contact Stawell Regional Health on 5358 8630.

The Stawell Times-News has removed the paywall from our stories relating to health warnings and safety of the community. However, we depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.