LEETON residents have been reminded one negative test for COVID-19 does not suggest immunity to the disease.
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The Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) also said those who have undergone a test for coronavirus must self-isolate while awaiting test results.
MLHD director of public health Tracey Oakman said it was important for people not to develop a false sense of security after being tested, as the result only indicates COVID status at the time the test was taken.
"If you receive a negative test result, that is fantastic, but it doesn't mean you are immune to COVID-19 or that you won't subsequently contract the disease," she said.
"If you develop symptoms again, in the following week for example, please get tested again.
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"It is important for people to understand that over time, they may need to be tested multiple times, and that is a responsible thing to do."
Leeton residents can currently be tested for the virus at the Leeton Hospital grounds, but must first make an appointment to do so.
Ms Oakman said those who have been tested should take the proper precautions and self-isolate while they wait on their results.
"In the Murrumbidgee area we are getting our results back in about 48 hours, so it's not a long time," she said.
"Please stay at home until you receive notification, so you know for sure your COVID result is negative before heading out into the community again."
Ms Oakman said the community as a whole would benefit from this approach, as it was important for people not to pass on any respiratory conditions at this time, including the flu and the common cold.
"If you're sick, do your best to keep that illness to yourself," she said.
"At the moment, anyone with respiratory symptoms needs to self-isolate and not attend work, so we want to reduce all respiratory illnesses within the community.
"So far we are doing well with that, as we've had a significant drop in the number of flu cases compared to last year."
COVID-19 testing is advised for people experiencing fever, dry cough, sore (scratchy) throat, shortness of breath or a runny or stuffy nose. To book a test call 1800 831 099.