In the first combined release of COVID-19 case numbers from PCR and rapid antigen tests, the ACT has recorded 1,125 new daily infections.
ACT Health said 885 of the positive results were from PCR tests in the 24 hours to 8pm yesterday; 240 were from rapid antigen tests (RATs) across the same time period.
There were also an additional 1,178 positive RAT results recorded between January 8 to 12.
Earlier this week, the ACT government launched an online form so that people can record their positive RAT results.
Acting Health Minister Chris Steel said this RAT data would help the government “get a clearer picture of the spread across the community”.
There are currently 27 patients in ACT hospitals with COVID-19, including three in intensive care and requiring ventilation.
More than 28 per cent of Canberrans over 18 have received their COVID-19 booster and 98.6 per cent of the territory’s population aged over 12 have received two doses of a vaccine.
There are currently 4,382 active cases of COVID-19 in the ACT.
Kambah site temporarily moves to rapid antigen tests
Three of the ACT’s five walk-in clinics remain closed today due to a shortage of supplies needed to conduct PCR testing.
The Kambah, Gold Creek and Holt centres will likely remain shut for PCR testing until Monday, while the Garran and Mitchell sites remain open.
However, rapid antigen tests were made available from 10am Friday at the Kambah site for household contacts, those with symptoms of the virus, and those in the high or moderate risk categories.
Mr Steel announced the temporary change yesterday, saying it would allow pathology labs to catch up with demand.
“We’re experiencing an unprecedented number of cases here in the ACT,” he said.
“This has put a strain on our pathology, and our partners at Capital Pathology, and we’re continuing to work with them to make sure they have all the support that they need.
Mr Steel said there would be two tests available per eligible Canberran, until stock ran out.
“Those who have a positive result should report it as soon as possible to ACT Health using the form on the COVID-19 ACT website.”
The territory has so far received 10,000 RAT kits from the Commonwealth.
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