Port Stephens residents and visitors to the area who are showing flu-like or respiratory symptoms or visited Raymond Terrace McDonald's between 11.45am and 12.15pm on Tuesday, December 15 are being urged to get tested for COVID-19.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
NSW Health said on Sunday that a confirmed case had visited the McDonald's in William Bailey Street and that anyone who was at the restaurant between those times is regarded as a casual contact, should get tested immediately and isolate until they receive the results.
It comes as the Sydney cluster of COVID-19 cases grows and tighter NSW restrictions put in place just days out from Christmas.
Raymond Terrace Respiratory Clinic opened for four hours on Sunday afternoon to cope with the testing demand following the news that a confirmed case had visited the town's McDonald's.
The clinic operates by appointment - no referral needed - on weekdays.
Entry to the clinic is via the rear of Raymond Terrace Community Health Centre in Swan Street. Patients park in a designated parking space at the appointment time, remain in the car and phone the clinic on arrival. Staff will come out of the clinic to advise patients of further instructions.
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said on Sunday that she has asked the government to set up a pop-up testing station in Raymond Terrace.
"We need to make it easier for everyone who wants to do the right thing and get tested. I've asked the Minister for Health and the local health district for their support," she said.
Laverty Pathology operates a drive-through testing clinic at Tomaree Sports Complex in Nelson Bay. The clinic also opened for for five hours on Sunday afternoon to cope with the testing demand.
No appointment or referral is needed to receive a COVID-19 test at the Nelson Bay clinic.
Patients access the clinic by turning into the sports complex off Nelson Bay Road, immediately turn right and drive through the car park of the No.1 Sportsground and croquet courts.
Patients are advised to remain in their vehicle at all times.
The next nearest testing clinics are located at Maitland Hospital, Calvary Mater Hospital and John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle. Drive-through testing clinics are also located at the University of Newcastle and Warners Bay.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
