Henty business owner concerned town has high number of COVID cases as testing picks up

Due to concerns relating to an increase in local infections of COVID-19 cases, Henty Health Services Management in consultation with Murrumbidgee Local Health District opened up a drive-through clinic on Wednesday in the town's hospital ambulance bay.

Greater Hume Shire has recorded 23 cases in the four weeks up to 8pm on December 29, with four of those reported in Henty.

Owner of vintage store VentyHintage Carolyn Woodley believes the NSW Health figures don't reflect the personal knowledge from the community about who may have COVID-19.

"I've heard a number of people saying they know people who are sick, but it's not verifiable which is quite frustrating," she said.

"Why would they be having a COVID testing station if it's four cases? How else are they communicating it to people other than a post on Facebook from the local health advisory committee?

"I'm talking to elderly people who are not on Facebook because they've got no idea what's happening."

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Greater Hume Council mayor Heather Wilton said she was unaware if there had been a spike in cases, but urged the community to stay safe.

"People have got to learn to be more vigilant and be more careful," she said.

A MLHD spokesperson confirmed 28 people were swabbed at Henty on Wednesday.

"Many testing clinics closed down over Christmas and the public holidays to give staff a rest and time to spend with their families," the spokesperson said.

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