COVID-19 testing is important

Department of Health

NT Health is reminding people living and travelling in Central Australia to get a COVID-19 test if you have flu-like symptoms.

Centre for Disease Control, South Region Coordinator, Dr Belinda Greenwood Smith, said getting testing was one of the best tools we had to tackle coronavirus.

"The reason the Territory is free of coronavirus is because residents and visitors have been vigilant in respecting quarantine requirements, following hygiene measures and staying at home and getting tested when unwell," she said.

"It is important that people continue to get tested if they have symptoms."

People with coronavirus may experience symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, temperature or fever and tiredness or fatigue.

Other symptoms may include a runny nose, shortness of breath, muscle or joint pains, loss of smell and altered sense of taste.

"We are asking people not to be complacent," Dr Greenwood Smith said.

"If you are feeling sick with flu-like symptoms it's important that you don't go to work and that you stay at home and make an appointment to have a COVID-19 test so we don't miss any possible cases.

"We must remain wary of this virus and realise it can strike at any time. The best way to keep family, friends and the entire community safe is to get tested if you are feeling ill."

The drive-through clinic at the Todd Facility offers free testing for people who may be displaying possible COVID-19 symptoms. To get tested at the clinic you need to make an appointment by calling 1800 008 002.You don't need to see a GP first.

Testing also is available at:

· Alice Springs Respiratory Clinic – Call 08 7999 6100 to book an appointment

· Central Australia Aboriginal Congress – Call 1800 514 400 to book an appointment

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