What if I have COVID-19?

There is much confusion about spotting the symptoms of COVID-19 and what to do if you think you may have contracted the virus. On this page you will find information that will help you understand what to do should you be concerned that you or somebody you know has been infected.

You can find further information about keeping safe from COVID-19 in multiple languages on this site too.

The symptoms of COVID-19 are:

• Fever

• Coughing

• Sore Throat

• Fatigue

• Shortness of breath

You can use the Australian government’s COVID-19 online symptom checker to help you determine the likelihood of having the virus.

If you are exhibiting these symptoms

You can contact the NSW Department of Health to find out where to get tested. Be sure to seek medical advice from a doctor or hospital or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 before you visit a clinic. Call ahead to book an appointment and to let them know that you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.

The nearest COVID-19 clinics are:

• Royal Prince Alfred Hospital:
  Gloucester Drive Entrance,
  50 Missenden Road, Camperdown NSW 2050
  8am-6pm, 7 days

• Redfern Health Centre Clinic
  103-105 Redfern Street, Redfern 2016
  9am-4pm, Monday-Friday

You can find a full list of COVID-19 clinics on the NSW Health website.

If you want to talk to someone about your symptoms, call the National Coronavirus Helpline for advice. Their number is 1800 020 080.

You must take precautions against infecting other people, such as coughing into your elbow, washing your hands well and regularly, keeping your distance and staying in doors.

When will I be tested for COVID-19?

Your doctor will determine whether you should be tested for COVID-19 or not. They will base their determination on your symptoms, your travel history, where you live and your health record. Fever and respiratory symptoms will most likely trigger further testing, particularly if these symptoms cannot be explained otherwise.

While your wait for the results of your test, be sure to self isolate and take precautions not to infect other people.

If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, you will be placed under medical care.

If you work in health care or aged care, it is important that you are diagnosed early. As a worker and employer, you must be vigilant about the safety of your staff and your clients. You can also register for the COVID-19 infection control training.

Please consult the COVID-19 information sheet for frequently asked questions.

You can keep up to date with the COVID-19 health alerts on the government’s health website.