COVID-19 testing clinics across the Hunter have been overwhelmed, after this morning’s announcement that the region will go into a week-long lockdown from 5pm today.
Health authorities are urging anyone with even the mildest symptoms of the virus to isolate and get a test.
It comes after 5 positive cases were recorded in the region overnight, from more than 260 statewide.
This was the drive through clinic at Warners Bay just before 2pm:
Very long line for testing snaking along the New England Highway at Maitland this afternoon. Clinic is at capacity. It comes after two students tested positive in the region @nbnnews pic.twitter.com/M1wmr9XOb1
— Jacinta Lee (@jacinta_lee3) August 5, 2021
Meanwhile, local police are calling on people to stop panic buying, after hundreds of people have been seen filling shopping centres.
#newcastle Marketown right now. SUPERMARKETS WILL NOT CLOSE! pic.twitter.com/5AbvNwORgW
— Tim Crakanthorp (@crakanthorp) August 5, 2021
Police in the #Hunter want panic buying to stop and say anyone who breaches lockdown restrictions can expect a fine. @nbnnews pic.twitter.com/FPdq5z6yQm
— Sam Burbury (@SamBurbury) August 5, 2021
