NSW ramps up coronavirus testing as lockdown restrictions could soon be eased

Anyone experiencing even the mildest symptoms of coronavirus are being urged to get tested in New South Wales in a new push to curb the spread.

The state is aiming to conduct 8000 tests for COVID-19 per day to stamp out coronavirus as quickly as possible.

That includes those with a cough, sniffle or mild discomfort in the chest.

The expansion of testing is one of the steps to seeing social distancing laws being relaxed, with indications that could be happening as early as May.

Small scale sporting events and small gatherings could be among the first to be allowed.

But health authorities are wary of moving too soon in case a second wave of coronavirus breaks out, as seen in some countries where social distancing rules have been reviewed.

New South Wales currently has 2,976 cases of coronavirus, with five new cases being recorded since Wednesday, premier Gladys Berejiklian said on Thursday.

Two-thirds of coronavirus sufferers in the state have now recovered from the infection.

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