Opening hours and processes for all Tamworth COVID-19 testing clinics as local demand increases

Data shows swab rates doubled in each of the Tamworth, Gunnedah and Liverpool Plains local government areas when comparing last week to the week before.

In Walcha, more than eight times the number of tests were taken last week compared to the week before.

Hunter New England Health (HNEH) revealed the numbers on Tuesday, which show there were more than 1250 tests done during the week in Tamworth alone; more than 170 in Gunnedah; close to 450 in Armidale; and more than 80 in Walcha.

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The numbers are set to soar when the region's screening statistics for this week are released, with vehicles lining up at the Tamworth drive-through for hours on Monday.

The spike comes as the Sydney COVID-19 cluster continues to grow, with 19 new locally-acquired cases reported in NSW in the latest update on Tuesday.

High traffic volumes at testing centres have prompted some changes as authorities work to make sure nearby roads are clear and safe.

Cars headed to the only drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic in Tamworth will now have to enter via Carter Street, after traffic chaos on Monday.

Cars have to queue by entering Carter Street, off Bridge Street, and heading towards the Plain Street carpark.

Plain Street itself will be used as an exit point only, and people leaving can turn onto Ebsworth Street.

Queues appeared to be a little quieter on Tuesday, but Tamworth Regional Council confirmed staff will check traffic conditions daily and make any changes needed.

It is understood Tamworth Respiratory Clinic was also taking walk-ins for testing all day on Sunday in response to increased demand.

Locals are reminded that anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms should get a test and isolate until they receive a negative result.

Strict COVID-19 restrictions have come back into force in the regions, while cities further south are in lockdown.

As the pandemic continues, these are all the places you can get a COVID-19 swab and how to access them.

More regional locations and information is on the NSW Health website.

Laverty Pathology drive-through COVID-19 screening

Tamworth Respiratory Clinic

Or, talk to your GP about getting a referral to pathology for a COVID-19 test.

Laverty Pathology drive-through COVID-19 screening

Gunnedah Respiratory Clinic - Ochre Health

Quirindi testing clinic

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