COVID-19 Updates

COVID-19 testing

If you feel unwell with any symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), however mild, you should be tested. If you have any fever, chills, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and loss of sense of smell or taste - stay home, don’t go in to work; don’t go shopping; and don’t visit friends and family. Get tested and stay at home until you get the result.

Waiting times for test results may take 2-3 days. Some groups (such as healthcare workers and COVID contacts) are prioritised. Everyone who is tested is required to self-isolate until test results are received.

For further information, please call the dedicated Department of Health and Human Services hotline on 1800 675 398.  Please note this line is receiving high demand. Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.

Get tested

Testing is available at the following sites in Bass Coast.

  1. Phillip Island Health Hub, 50-54 Church St, Cowes.
    Open 24hrs, 7 days per week
    Ph: 5951 2101

  2. Wonthaggi Hospital Drive Through Clinic, 235 Graham Street, Wonthaggi
    9am - 1pm daily, subject to change due to demand or extreme weather event, e.g. storm or heat

    Other Health Services

  3. Wonthaggi Respiratory Clinic

    Variable times: Bookings required Ph. 0492 036 568

Please keep regularly checking the DHHS website at: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus, as information changes regularly.

We will aim to see you as quickly as we can for testing but if you all come at once, please be patient. Bring your medicare card, snacks and water.

At Phillip Island Health Hub, when you arrive you will be triaged by a senior nurse. You will be provided with information and a contact number that you can ring at any time while waiting. In the event that your wait is longer than one hour, the senior nurse will contact you and reassess your symptoms and initiate any treatment that may be required. TIP: attending after 8pm and before 8am will be quicker.

What is coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new virus that can cause an infection in people, including a severe respiratory illness.

The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.

What are the symptoms?

Many people who contract COVID–19 will suffer only mild symptoms. However early indications are that the elderly and people with pre-existing medical conditions are more at risk of experiencing severe symptoms. The most common symptoms reported include:

  • Fever

  • Breathing difficulties such as breathlessness

  • Cough

  • Sore throat

  • Fatigue or tiredness.

How can I reduce my risk?

Below are recommended ways to reduce your risk of coronavirus:

  1. Wash hands often with soap and running water, for for at least 20 seconds. DRY with paper towel or a hand dryer.

  2. TRY not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth

  3. 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.

  4. STAY at home if you feel sick. If you take medication, ensure you have adequate supplies

  5. PHONE your doctor or the hotline – 1800 675 398 – if you need medical attention. They will tell you what to do

  6. CONTINUE healthy habits: exercise, drink water, get plenty of sleep.

  7. WEARING a face mask.

  8. BUY an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with over 60 per cent alcohol.

You can find out more at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

You can download a helpful PDF guide of these steps here.

How can I self-assess?

The Department of Health and Human services has developed an interactive self-assessment tool to help you understand your personal circumstances. You can access the tool here.