Kyabram targeted in statewide coronavirus testing blitz

Jun 15, 2020

THE Kyabram district is one of the first areas targeted as part of a statewide COVID-19 testing blitz.

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The program focuses on Local Government Areas (LGAs) with low testing rates, communities with high case numbers, high-risk workforces and vulnerable groups.

Kyabram District Health Service chief executive Anne McEvoy said it was a good thing Kyabram was included in the first wave.

“The State Government are targeting areas with low testing rates, which is not the case here, but also areas that have had positive cases … I anticipate due to KDHS having some positive staff, that was one of the reasons why we were targeted,” she said.

“It’s definitely not a cause for concern, it’s actually a positive thing that we are able to increase, enhance and promote testing into our community.”

The testing program, which will help provide vital intelligence and inform the further easing of restrictions, will be rolled out in four three-week waves; the first starting in Kyabram, Mildura, Dandenong and Brimbank.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in Victoria is 1732, with 12 new cases reported on Sunday.

Of the total 1732 cases, there have been 239 in regional Victoria.

There have been 184 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Victoria that have been acquired through unknown transmission.

There are currently 49 active cases in Victoria.

KDHS will continue running its own testing clinic at Kyabram Health where 862 people have been tested to date.

It will also open COVID-19 testing clinics at Tongala Health and Stanhope Health on Thursday, June 18.

Ms McEvoy said it was important for Tongala and Stanhope residents to have better access to testing, as opposed to being forced to travel to Kyabram or Echuca.

“We want to utilise those sites and if our role is to promote testing, it makes sense that we offer the testing at those sites as well,” she said.

“It provides a level of reassurance for localised testing. Back in March, people had to go to Echuca or Shepparton so if the testing is done locally, that is only a good thing.

“If in doubt, we are encouraging people to get tested. It is a fairly quick procedure and the results are generally turned around within about two days.”

The Tongala Health clinic will open from 10am-12pm, while Stanhope’s clinic will run from 1pm-3pm.

Health Minister Minister Jenny Mikakos said targeted testing would be held until the end of August.

“Our massive testing blitz saw Victorians come out in huge numbers to get tested. Now, we’re strategically targeting specific communities to make sure we get the full picture,” she said.

“If Victoria was a nation, our per capita testing rate would be one of the best in the world. But as we gradually ease restrictions, we won’t take any chances.”

Community members with symptoms such as high temperature, cough, runny nose and sore throat are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity.

Those with COVID-19 symptoms are encouraged to call 5857 0200 to book a COVID-19 test.