A rapid response by the Western NSW Local Health District ensured a testing clinic was up and running within hours of being notified of an active case travelling through the district and the community responded by getting tested in droves. (Photo: WNSWLHD)
Although COVID stories have dominated the headlines of late, it did not help to soften the blow of the news on Sunday that a positive truck driver had done some deliveries in Parkes last week.
The Central West’s COVID free bubble had burst and instantly worries and concerns were on the increase as people anxiously watched the situation develop every day. Long lines formed at the drive through testing clinic, which was set up in a matter of hours and had been running all week.
Parkes Shire Mayor Cr Ken Keith OAM said a big thank you to the community for their quick response to get tested, and encouraged the community to continue getting tested.
On Monday Parkes Shire Council and many other workplaces and businesses closed their offices and services in response to the situation.
Good news on Tuesday for Parkes was that none of the close contacts had tested positive, but there was a positive case in Blayney who had been in contact with the truck driver. This resulted in a seven-day lockdown announced for Orange, Blayney and Cabonne from midnight on Tuesday, and several exposure sites added to the list in Orange. Everyone in these areas must stay at home unless it is for an essential reason.
This meant that many people who had visited the venues, had to get tested and self isolate.
Western NSW Local Health District (WN-SWLHD) is encouraging everyone to continue to remain vigilant. “COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities. If you have any symptoms please go and get a COVID-19 test.”
Community members with questions or concerns about COVID-19, including testing and vaccination, can contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. Information on COVID-19 vaccinations can be found at www.health.gov.au. Anyone with symptoms related to COVID-19 should get tested and self-isolate until they receive their results.