NSW recorded zero new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8pm last night.
There were also eight cases recorded in returned travellers, bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic to 4,885.
There were 8,773 tests reported to 8pm last night, compared with the previous day’s total of 12,764. The drop in daily testing numbers is an increasing concern, and NSW Health renews its calls for people to get tested if they are experiencing even the mildest of symptoms.
All eight new cases reported to 8pm last night were acquired overseas.
Whole genome sequencing suggests the seven cases reported over the weekend are linked to the Berala cluster. Investigations and contact tracing are underway to establish the route of acquisition. While an epidemiological link has not yet been made, there is the possibility that others in the community may have the virus.
High testing rates are critical to our efforts to identify COVID-19 cases and to prevent it from spreading. This is particularly important in areas where recent cases have attended, including Auburn, Berala, and surrounding suburbs, as well as across western and south-west Sydney.
Communities in these areas are asked to be vigilant, with anyone experiencing any cold- or flu-like symptoms, no matter how mild, to isolate immediately, get tested and continue to isolate until a negative result is received.
The best thing we can do for our friends and family is to get tested; by doing so, we are helping to keep them all safe.
People are urged to check the NSW Government website for regularly updated details of venues of concern, and affected public transport routes, and are asked to follow the health advice provided.
There are more than 350 COVID-19 testing locations across NSW, many of which are open seven days a week. To find your nearest clinic visit COVID-19 clinics or contact your GP.
NSW Health is treating 97 COVID-19 cases, one of whom is in intensive care. Most cases (98 per cent) are being treated in non-acute, out-of-hospital care, including returned travellers in the Special Health Accommodation.
Note: Case counts reported for a particular day may vary over time due to ongoing investigations and case review.
*notified from 8pm 16 January 2021 to 8pm 17 January 2021 **from 8pm 11 January 2021 to 8pm 17 January 2021
* Testing previously carried out on day 10 is now carried out on day 12.
COVID-19 Update - 18 January 2021
