An overseas traveller has returned to Newcastle with coronavirus, after developing symptoms following his stint in hotel quarantine in Sydney.
He tested negative on day 10 of quarantine, and was released five days after, but developed symptoms once he was home in Newcastle.
He and his close contacts are in isolation.
Meanwhile, a four lane drive-through COVID-19 clinic opened at The University of Newcastle this morning.
Hunter New England Health COVID-19 Medical Controller Dr Paul Craven said that as the weather gets colder and there are more coughs and colds about, it’s important people get tested to rule out COVID-19.
“Winter is always a busy time for our hospitals so we’re urging locals with milder cold and flu like symptoms, who do not need emergency care, to utilise other available options for testing, not just EDs” Dr Craven said.
“This will mean we have more space at our hospitals for those who need emergency care and we reduce the footfall at our facilities to protect our staff and vulnerable patients,” he said.
Testing at the University clinic will operate 8am to 4pm, Monday to Sunday, and people must contact the clinic on 4964 7497 to arrange an appointment.
Anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough or shortness of breath, or with symptoms such as loss of sense of smell or taste, is urged to get tested.
