While COVID-19 testing numbers have hit an all-time high in the ACT, the Territory is still reporting no active cases of the virus.
A total of 494 negative tests have been returned in the past 24 hours, as the total number of negative tests in the region reaches 16,962.
ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman said the past two days has shown the highest number of testing in the region.
“The past 48 hours has been our busiest period of testing since we began local testing for COVID-19 in the ACT in February,” she said.
“A significant portion of our high test figures over the last two days has been from testing conducted on our returned Australians who have been in hotel quarantine since last Friday.
“The decision to conduct voluntary testing for our returned Australians, who will finish their two-week quarantine periods at midnight tomorrow, was based on the National Guidelines for testing. All returned negative results.”
The ACT hasn’t recorded an active case for the virus in over three weeks.
However, Dr Coleman is still urging the wider community to remain vigilant if they are feeling unwell.
“I remind the community that testing remains the best way for us to know if COVID-19 is active in the community,” she said.
“If you’re feeling unwell, please get tested. Either call your general practitioner or present at one of the designated testing sites.
“Symptoms can vary between patients. The most common symptoms can include fever, shortness of breath, sore throat and cough. Additionally, sudden onset of loss of smell, loss of taste, runny nose, muscle pain, joint pain, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite.”
The ACT government announced on Tuesday easing of some restrictions, particularly across the hospitality and tourism industry, outdoor gatherings and public spaces.
There is still advice to maintain social distancing, continue good hand and respiratory hygiene and staying home if you’re feeling unwell.
