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SARTA links with health sector for virus testing

Focus on interstate heavy vehicle drivers who will have easy access to service

 

The South Australian Road Transport Association (SARTA) has linked with its state health arms to allow heavy vehicle drivers to take quick and easy Covid-19 tests.

South Australia has taken a harder line than many other states on getting a grip on virus transmission and has rules in place for truck drivers.

“After two weeks of discussions and planning between SA Pathology, the Department of Health and SARTA, we are pleased to be able to advise you of the arrangements for free no-hassle Covid-19 testing for HV drivers without any need for prior appointments or doctor referrals,” SARTA says.


Read how South Australia tightened up border travel rules, here


SA Pathology has testing already available at the Bordertown truckstop and SARTA is looking to have one set up at Tailem Bend, while information is available at other sites.

“SA Pathology recommends testing for interstate truck drivers, particularly those involved in livestock transport to abattoirs,” its clinical service director Dr Tom Dodd states in a memo on the service.

“This is being instituted as a proactive health promotion strategy to enable broader community testing for Covid-19 and support early detection before it spreads in the community.

“Any driver should consider having a voluntary swab even if asymptomatic, but particularly if experiencing any of the following symptoms at any time in the last four weeks:

  • Acute respiratory infection eg cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose or fever OR
  • Acute unexplained loss of smell or altered sense of taste OR
  • New onset of headache, myalgia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea AND who are close contacts of a confirmed case of Covid-19.

“The collection, which consists of a nasal and throat swab, takes just a few minutes. ‘Interstate truck driver’ should be clearly marked on the collection form.”

The memo with locations can be found here.

A self-registration form can be found here

A request form can be found here.

 

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