Jeremy Rockliff,Minister for Health
The health and safety of Tasmanians remain the Tasmanian Government’s number one priority as we adjust to living with COVID-19.
As a State, we have a very high rate of testing and vaccination, but we will continue to work towards continually improving access to these important protections against COVID-19.
Today I am pleased to announce that rapid antigen tests (RAT) will be available in St Helens for people who require a test.
These test kits are only available for people who are symptomatic or have been identified as a close contact of a COVID-19 confirmed case.
RATs are available now from the St Helens Sports Complex until 4.30pm today – entrance through the St Helens Football Club gate.
In addition to this, we are bolstering our vaccination clinic presence on the East Coast by establishing a pop-up booster clinic in St Helens that will be operating on Tuesday the 18th and Wednesday the 19th of January. This clinic will be at the Bendigo Bank Indoor Stadium.
Minister for Health, Jeremy Rockliff, said that getting vaccinated is our number one protection against COVID-19, and as a result of our high vaccination rates, the majority of people who test positive for COVID are experiencing mild symptoms.
“We encourage anyone who hasn’t yet been vaccinated to take advantage of this service to protect themselves, and their family and friends. For those who have had their second dose before 20 September, you are now eligible for a booster,” Minister Rockliff said.
“Additionally, I would especially like to encourage all parents and carers to book their children into one of the special COVID-19 vaccination sessions for 5-11-year-olds. A Pop-up children’s clinic is already available on February 2. This clinic will also be held at the Bendigo Bank Indoor Stadium.”
Break O’Day Council Mayor, Mick Tucker, said that as Mayor his greatest concern is protecting his community.
“I am incredibly grateful that the Minister has listened to my concerns and responded very quickly to the need in St Helen’s for Rapid Antigen tests and booster appointments. I think the government is showing it is prepared to remain flexible, respond to rapidly changing circumstances and act in the best interests of regional communities,” Mr Tucker said.
Importantly, if you receive a positive RAT result, you must register your positive test result on the coronavirus website.
