Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)

Our second lot of rapid antigen tests (RATs) were handed out to all students yesterday during period 6. The tests come in packets of five and should last each student for two weeks. Instructions on how to use the RATs are contained in the box. We recommended that each student do two tests per week on a Sunday and Wednesday night in readiness for the next school day.

If you get a positive result for Covid 19. You need to:

• Step 1: Focus on your health and get help if you need it
• Step 2: Report your result and immediately isolate for 7 days

If students receive a positive test result at any time, they must report this through the Department of Health system Rapid antigen test-Coronavirus Victoria or via the coronavirus hotline at 1800 675 398.

Students (or their parents) must also report a positive result to their school, by phone or written notification; this is so the school can support them, record that they will be absent while in 7-day isolation, and let the rest of the school community know there has been a positive case onsite and that they should monitor for symptoms.

• Step 3: Tell your household contacts - they must isolate for 7 days
• Step 4: Tell your ‘social contacts’ to get tested if they have symptoms
• Step 5: Tell your workplace and/or education facility

If you do not have symptoms and you are not a contact, and you test positive on a rapid antigen test, we recommend you get a PCR test to confirm that result. We do not recommend this if you have symptoms or you are a contact.
If your symptoms worsen, call your doctor. If you need emergency care, call Triple Zero 000.

General health messages and responses in relation to Covid.

The general health messages in relation to Covid 19 remain the same. Please stay home when unwell. Covid symptoms include: fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, loss or change in sense of smell or taste. Some people may also experience headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
If you have any of these symptoms, however mild, you should seek advice and get tested. To get further advice, call the 24-hour Coronavirus Hotline 1800 675 398 or your doctor.
Social distancing remains important and receiving your vaccinations is encouraged.

Phil Honeywell, Principal
Scott McLeod, Assistant Principal
James Murphy, Assistant Principal