“The Swab”, a “Nose Tickle” or even a “Brain Scrape”. These are a few of the names that we have heard the COVID-19 test called. Medically we call it a “Nasopharyngeal Swab”, but as there have been lots of questions about it as the pandemic continues on, we will try to answer the common ones below.
Do I need to have a test?
Often if you are asking this question the answer is yes! In a public health update issued on 24/07/2020 Queensland Health has recommended the following:
Who should be tested?
Anyone with any of the following COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild:
- Fever or history of fever
- sore throat, rhinorrhoea (runny nose)
- cough, shortness of breath
- acute fatigue/myalgia/arthralgia (muscle or joint aches or pains)
- Loss of smell, loss of taste
Does this include Children?
In short, yes. All of the recommendations above apply to all ages.
How do I arrange a test?
For current patients of Creek Road General Practice, we recommend that you either book online or call reception on 07 31234829 to organise a telephone or telehealth consultation with your GP to arrange a test. In most instances, if you have symptoms but are not unwell, your GP can then organise a form for you to either have a swab at a pathology collection centre (walk in) or a drive through centre. If during the consultation with your GP it is determined you need physical review this will be facilitated.
The other option is to attend an Australian Govt sponsored respiratory clinic with no consultation or referral required.
If your symptoms are serious, you should seek urgent medical attention by attending an emergency department. If it is a medical emergency, please call 000.
What actually is done during the test?
During the test, a thin, soft, flexible swab is passed into a nostril, as well as the back of the throat. There are a few moments of discomfort during the test, and a funny feeling that lasts for 30 seconds or so after. It is a safe and quick procedure, and the pathology collectors are getting plenty of practice!
The above explanation is obviously not as good as a real example, which you can see in this post from The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne (Thanks to Nurse Jen for passing this on).
How do I get my results?
If you have your test organised through Creek Road General Practice, your GP will call you when your results arrive in – usually between 24 and 72 hours after the test. Some pathology providers or hospitals will also send a text message when a swab is tested as negative.
Where can I get more information?
If you want personalised information regarding your own health or have concerns please organise an appointment with your GP.
If you would like more general information regarding COVID-19 please see the sites below:
Australian Government COVID-19 information
Queensland COVID-19 Statistics