The health service wanted to thank everyone who has come forward for a test.

"Thank you to the community for coming forward and getting tested," the health service said in a public message.

"There were more than 19,000 COVID-19 tests carried out in the Illawarra Shoalhaven last week alone.

"High testing numbers are vital in detecting cases of COVID-19 in order to prevent further transmission, and to keep our friends and families safe."

They do ask people to be patient when it comes to getting test results.

"Due to the large number of people turning up to get tested, result wait times may be longer than usual," the message read.

"Pathology staff are working round the clock to deliver your result as quickly as possible. Most people receive their results within 24-48 hours, but please allow up to 72 hours before contacting the clinic.

"We appreciate your patience throughout this busy time.

"We've established a number of pop-up and drive-through testing clinics to enable our community to be tested quickly and easily."

For a full list of local testing clinic locations and opening hours, visit: https://www.islhd.health.nsw.gov.au/.../covid-19-latest...