Update 11.40am:
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The healthcare group's acting medical services director Dr John Gallichio says the region's concern and anxiety is understandable.
"Please be reassured contact tracing for those individuals are underway. Fortunately they have not needed hospitalisation," he said.
"Practice social distancing, use hand sanitisers and wash your hands. If you're unwell, stay at home. The other important thing is to use your COVID-Safe app."
For people concerned they have had contact, Dr Gallichio said the individuals that test positive were providing information about their contacts.
"The contacts of those poeple will be notified by the Department of Health and Human Services, and they are to self-isolate.
"If they have symptoms they are to be tested, otherwise they will be tested at day 11 after their first contact with the individuals. There is nothing to be concerned about, and if you are concerned, have the test or see your GP."
11.17am: Wimmera Health Care Group management is pleading for calm in the community after the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Horsham Rural City had two new COVID-19 cases.
Chief Executive Catherine Morley said the hospital and Covid Assessment Clinic team members were being overwhelmed with calls from a panicked community.
"We understand the growing anxiety in the community but there are rules in place to protect everyone and if people follow the rules, they can feel safe," Ms Morley said.
"The increased number of cases in Victoria has placed a heavy burden on hospitals and testing clinics across the state.
"WHCG is working closely with DHHS to manage this situation in our region and remain committed to protecting our community."
A record 47 COVID-19 tests were undertaken yesterday and the testing clinic is booked out today.
Ms Morley said people are turning up at ED and the assessment clinic wanting to be tested because they believe they might have been in contact with a COVID patient.
"We have no authority to test asymptomatic people without a direct referral from DHHS," she said.
"All these people are doing by presenting at the clinic is putting themselves and others at further risk.
"If anyone is concerned that they have been in contact with COVID-19, they should isolate at home for 14 days.
"Once the DHHS has completed contact tracing, they will make direct contact with anyone who will need testing and provide them with an official permission letter.
"That will be the time to contact your nearest assessment clinic."
READ MORE:
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- Ararat Rats pull out of junior football-netball competition
- Horsham-linked Nature Strip rated world's best sprinter
- Door-to-door sales suspended in the Wimmera due to COVID-19 health risk
- JUNIOR HICCUP: season delayed as COVID-19 cases rise
- Zane Bell steps into new role as president for the Rotary Club of East Horsham
- Masks made mandatory at Horsham Hospital
WHCG's Covid-19 Assessment Clinic will continue to be available daily by appointment on 5362 3474.
If you believe you may have been in contact with a COVID patient, phone the Coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.
