AFTER a COVID-19 contact scare at Stawell Police Station, East Grampians Health Service saw an influx of community members for testing across the weekend.
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A Victoria Police spokesperson said a person from a COVID-19 classified red zone attended the Stawell Police foyer in the past seven days.
At East Grampians Health Service, chief executive Andrew Freeman said they saw an increase in tests over over Saturday, August 20, and Sunday, August 22 , Monday, August 23 and up to Tuesday, August, 24.
"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," Mr Freeman said.
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"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."
This influx of tests comes after a long, wet and cold winter.
The EGHS swab clinic is located in a marquee in the carpark to allow people to drive in and remain in their cars while undergoing a swab test.
"Our swab clinic staff go above and beyond in sometimes cold and wet conditions, but always greet our community members attending for a swab test with a smile and reassurance," Mr Freeman said.
"I am very proud of the work they do and the service they provide to the community."
Since March 2020 when COVID-19 swab test reporting commenced, through to July 2021, the EGHS swab clinic has collected 5612 swabs.
The highest monthly number of swabs carried out was 772 in July this year and the highest number of swabs carried out in one day was 60 tests on May 30 this year.
EGHS has now recruited a permanent swab clinician and administration support for the EGHS clinic, which operates from 1.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Bookings can be made by phoning 5352 9532 (preferably between 8.30am and 12.30pm). Urgent after hours swabbing is available through the Urgent Care Centre.
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