Friday, December 13, 2024

Victoria expands council RAT program

COVID-19 rapid antigen tests (RATs) will be made available free of charge to all Victorians through their local council, the State Government announced today.

Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas said all Victorians were now eligible to pick up two free packets of RATs through their local council to help with early detection and treatment of coronavirus.

“All Victorians can now pick up two free packets of rapid antigen tests to ensure they can enjoy their summer safely with their loved ones,” said Minister Thomas.

“There are simple things people can do to enjoy the summer safely – take a test if you have symptoms, stay home if you’re sick, wear a high-quality mask if you can’t physically distance, talk to your GP to see if you’re eligible for antivirals and stay up to date with your vaccinations.”

The council RAT distribution program is currently operating across more than 200 local sites, such as libraries and council customer service centres. The program is now open to all Victorians with all eligibility requirements now removed, the Minister said.

Individuals can collect up to two packets for themselves plus up to two packets for each household member per visit while people with a disability or their carer can collect up to four packets of tests.

To find out if their local council is participating and check the collection sites in their neighbourhood Victorians can visit: coronavirus.vic.gov.au/get-a-covid-19-test.

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