New COVID drive-through testing clinic opens at Castlereagh

The new drive-through clinic is open seven days a week, 9am to 4pm.

A drive-through clinic is also in operation at Hawkesbury Showground (enter via Gate 3 Racecourse Road, Clarendon), open Monday to Friday, 10am to 12:30pm and 1pm to 3pm.

Another is located at the Penrith Paceway on Ransley Street, Penrith, open seven days a week, 9am to 4pm,

A NBMLHD spokesperson said at the drive-throughs, staff can test more people, more quickly, and no-one needs to get out of their car.

"We know winter is very cold and often wet and windy, so having our patients stay warm and dry in their cars means it's much more comfortable and safer for them - especially if they are unwell," the spokesperson told the Gazette.

"At busy times there may be a wait, but please be patient as our staff work hard to make sure everyone is seen as quickly as possible."

If you are tested at a drive-through clinic, you will get your results just as quickly as those who attend other clinics, the spokesperson said.

There are other COVID Clinics in and around The Hawkesbury, including walk-in and drive-through clinics and those that are led by GPs. Visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/clinics.aspx to find a clinic near you.

"Please remember, if you are unwell you should not go to work, school, shopping or visit friends and family. Whenever possible you should keep a minimum distance of 1.5 metres from other people," the spokesperson reminded residents.

There's advice on the NSW COVID-19 website on how you can safely care for others in your family or household who may be unwell. Visit www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19 for more.

If you have concerns or need health advice, you should call your GP or the 24 hour National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080.