Tamworth COVID-19: testing numbers into the hundreds at Tamworth hospital coronavirus clinic but no new cases

Of the 800 or so tests done across the city in the past four weeks, more than 200 of them were swabbed at the new drive-through clinic at Tamworth hospital on Monday and Tuesday alone.

According to NSW Health data, there were no additional positive cases clocked in the local government area as at 8pm on Wednesday.

Tamworth and Armidale are the subject of a testing blitz following concerns from Hunter New England Health (HNEH) about the low testing rates and two mystery patients with an unknown source of infection in Tamworth.

Backed by popular demand and the desire to test as many locals as possible, the clinics in both cities have been extended.

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Tamworth hospital's drive-through testing service was destined to end on Friday, but will now open daily until next Friday, May 8.

The clinic has seen testing numbers skyrocket in Tamworth in the past two days as HNEH encourage anyone with even the mildest of symptoms to arrange a test.

Armidale locals have also rallied to get tested, with the drive-through clinic at Armidale hospital open for an extra week and its opening time extended by three hours every weekday, between 9am and 4pm.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said he expected that by Wednesday evening, about 210 people would have been tested for coronavirus at the specialised clinic.

He said the Armidale clinic is fully booked for the rest of the week, and has been flooded with phone calls.

"I'm pleased to say the people of Armidale have really stepped up, with their efforts helping take us one step closer towards the easing of social distancing restrictions," he said.

HNEH public health physician Dr David Durrheim said he didn't expect to find many - if any - cases in the area.

He said the purpose of the clinics is not necessarily to reveal clusters but rather to rule out any virus that might be hiding in the community.

If you have respiratory or cold-like symptoms or are concerned for your health, a COVID-19 test can be arranged by calling Armidale on 0427 923 080 or Tamworth on 1800 881 568.

HNEH is reminding residents without access to a specialised clinic and people that miss out during the two week blitz, that they can still get arrange a coronavirus test at their local hospital emergency department or by calling their GP.

The HNEH district also remained free of new COVID-19 cases in the latest update, as at 8pm on Wednesday.

Only two new cases were recorded state-wide for the same time period.

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