Wimmera Health Care Group’s COVID-19 testing team is preparing for an expected surge of more than 200 returned NSW visitors next week.
The surge will begin this Monday when temperatures are predicted to reach the mid to high 30s.
WHCG Infection Control nurse Kate Summerhayes said almost all of the 254 people who tested at the clinic during the New Year’s Day long weekend would be returning next week for their ‘day-11’ follow-up test.
“A day-11 test is for anyone who is told to quarantine for 14 days because they have been in a high-risk area or been in contact with a COVID patient,” Ms Summerhayes said.
“This was the case with the NSW visitors who crossed the border while it was still open,” she said.
“The day 11 test allows time for a confirmed negative result before they officially come out of quarantine after day 14.”
Ms Summerhayes said most of Victoria’s COVID clinics would be planning for likely surges in testing numbers next week.