Where to get tested for coronavirus in Queensland
Queensland Health has set up fever clinics in hospital emergency departments and community assessment centres across the state.
In contrast to other states and territories, the department is not making the full list publicly available.
Clinical nurse consultant Janice Geary demonstrates the testing procedure for Queensland Health Minister Steven Miles at the Prince Charles Hospital.Credit:Darren England/AAP
Instead, people are urged to contact 13HEALTH, their GP or their local hospital to arrange an assessment.
People should call the GP surgery or hospital and describe their symptoms and travel history before heading to health facilities to help staff prepare.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, breathing difficulties, cough, sore throat and fatigue.
Queensland Health updated its advice on April 9.
A person will generally be tested if they have a fever (or history of fever) or acute respiratory symptoms, and, in the past 14 days:
- They were a close contact or a household contact of a confirmed case
- They had been overseas, including on a cruise
Testing may also be done for people who have a fever (or history of fever) or acute respiratory symptoms, and:
More information on the symptoms of coronavirus and whether a person should get tested are available on the Queensland Health website.
What can I do to reduce my risk of coronavirus infection?
- Wash hands often with soap and running water, for at least 20 seconds. Dry with paper towel or hand dryer.
- Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.
- Stay at home if you feel sick. If you take medication, make sure you have enough.
- Phone your doctor or the hotline – 13HEALTH – if you need medical attention. They will tell you what to do.
- Continue healthy habits: exercise, drink water, get plenty of sleep.
- Wearing a face mask is not necessary if you are well.
- Buy an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with more than 60 per cent alcohol.
Source: DHHS