Tens of millions more Rapid Antigen Tests will soon be available to Victorians, with the state government ordering a further 166 million tests, building on its initial bulk order of 44 million.
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Premier Daniel Andrews said the distribution of free RATs will help reduce the pressure on the PCR testing system.
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It comes as more than 4.5 million extra tests have landed in Victoria already this week, in addition to the three million tests which arrived on Sunday.
"We're providing millions of rapid antigen tests to the Victorians who need it most, so they can protect us and our loved ones - prioritising workers who keep our health, aged care, disability and emergency service sectors going," the premier said.
"There are two critical ways we can drive our COVID-19 numbers down - get your third vaccine dose to better protect yourself and the community and isolate if you test positive on a rapid test or a PCR."
In total, more than 2.2 million RATs will have been distributed to health workers, staff in sensitive settings and vulnerable communities by the end of the week.
Victoria's health services have been prioritised in the delivery of RATs,so staff at hospitals and GP respiratory clinics can continue to work safely.
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More than 50 community organisations have received RATs so far - including in priority settings such as community health sites, disability support services, Aboriginal community organisations, family support centres, mental health services and regional centres.
If you test positive on a RAT, you must report your positive result to the Department of Health by visiting coronavirus.vic.gov.au/report or calling 1800 675 398. Those needing help in a language other than English can dial 0 for translations.
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