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ACT lockdown extended as Covid cases surge

The ACT will remain in lockdown for another two weeks after a "concerning" jump in Covid-19 cases.

A total of 19 new infections were recorded in the territory overnight — a huge spike from the nine active cases yesterday.

There are now a total of 28 active cases associated with the current Canberra cluster.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said it was a "serious situation" and residents should prepare for more cases over the coming days.

"This is concerning and it demonstrates the virus is active in our community," he told reporters.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr speaks to the media during a press conference in Canberra, Thursday, August 12, 2021. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) NO ARCHIVING
The ACT has reported 19 new Covid-19 cases, promiting authorities to extend the current lockdown until September 2. Source: AAP

He warned there are thousands of close contacts and a growing list of exposure sites.

"We do not want to see exponential growth as we have seen in other jurisdictions so the best way we can avoid this is to limit our movement. Please stay at home," Mr Barr said.

Student and aged care worker among positive cases

One of the Covid-19 positive cases is a student from Lyneham High School, who attended classes over four days while unknowingly infectious.

The entire school community is considered close contacts and must get tested and isolate immediately.

The Greenway Views Aged Care facility at Tuggeranong has also locked down after a worker, who had received one dose of the vaccine, tested positive.

All residents and staff are undergoing urgent testing.

It is the first time COVID-19 has been detected in an aged care home in Canberra since the pandemic began.

ACT lockdown extension could be cut short

Mr Barr flagged the lockdown, which had been due to end on Thursday, could be lifted earlier if case numbers drop.

"We will assess the situation each and every day and if we can end the lockdown earlier we will," Mr Barr said.

"We are finalising details of this extension and will supply a comprehensive set of information for the community and businesses at tomorrow's press conference."

The lockdown, which will now last until September 2, was announced last week following confirmation of Canberra's first recorded infection in more than a year.

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