Health

COVID-19 Testing Frequently Asked Questions

By Super User 766

Ekurhuleni health practitioners receive numerous questions pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic, and we have summed them up for you:

Question 1: Can I just come to the clinic whenever I feel like it?

Answer:

You should have a COVID-19 test when:

  • You were in close contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19.
  • When you have COVID-19 symptoms like fever, sore throat, cough, general body pains, lack of smell and lack of taste.
  • You have a history of attending a funeral or gatherings and have one or two symptoms.

Question 2: Does the City of Ekurhuleni provide free testing?

Answer:

YES, The City provides free health services and free COVID-19 screening and testing.

Question 3: What kind of test is done at the clinic?

Answer:

The nasal swab is performed by a trained professional nurse or a doctor and sent to the National Health Laboratory Services.

 As soon as the results are available, a message is sent to the person with further instructions.

Question 4: What should I do when I get home while I wait for my results?

Answer:

  • Always wear a face mask.
  • Isolate yourself by staying in a separate room from the rest of your family.
  • Wash hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds.
  • Sanitise your hands.

 Question 5: Should I go straight to the testing centre when I come for a test?

Answer:

Only visit your nearest clinic if you have signs and symptoms like high temperature (fever), cough, sore throat, tiredness (fatigue), loss of taste, loss of appetite and if you have attended funerals or gatherings.

Question 6: Should I wait with other patients at the same waiting area when I come for a test?

Answer:

  • Go to the entrance of the clinic and inform the health care worker at the entrance that you have COVID-19 symptoms, or that you’ve been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
  • You will then be taken to an isolation room or tent where you will be tested.

Question 7: My child has flu-like symptoms, can he /she be tested for COVID?

The testing of a child at our clinics depends on the child’s age and whether the child was in close contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19.