Wayne Jones, Chief Executive NNSWLHD says the number of cases of COVID-19 in Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) has increased by two (10) since the weekend bringing the District’s total to seventeen (17) as of Monday afternoon.

Six of the seven confirmed cases are in self-isolation at home and one case is being cared for in hospital.

“NNSWLHD is continuing to work closely with staff, North Coast Primary Health Network, and local GPs, to ensure there are appropriate measures in place for an effective health response to COVID-19.” Said Mr Jones.

Mr Jones added that testing for COVID-19 is continuing in facilities within NNSWLHD, including COVID-19 flu clinics which have been established at Lismore Base Hospital and The Tweed Hospital.

“We have also now established a COVID-19/flu clinic at Grafton Base Hospital, which is open from 10am to 6pm daily.”

“However, we stress these clinics are for those most at risk with respiratory symptoms or fever, those returning from overseas or in contact with a COVID-19 case, or people like our health workers. It is vital that these respiratory clinics are not overwhelmed with people who are not in the high risk groups, which could result in delays identifying those most vulnerable.”

People without symptoms do not need to be tested.

The symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, headache, runny nose, or shortness of breath. Anyone with symptoms should isolate themselves from others.

All overseas travellers are reminded that they must self-isolate for 14 days on return to Australia, even if you have no symptoms. This is to protect the vulnerable people in our communities from COVID-19.