Coronavirus NSW: Fresh concern emerges despite no new local cases

NSW has recorded no cases of community transmission of Covid-19 for the 24 hours to 8pm, Sunday.

The health department said on Monday four overseas travellers in hotel quarantine have tested positive for the virus.

It’s the first time NSW hasn’t had any community transmission of coronavirus in nearly a fortnight – the last time being on October 6.

While it comes as good news, NSW Health said it’s still concerned.

“Testing numbers have dropped recently, which is a concern,” the department said.

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NSW Health was disappointed with only 6,952 tests reported to 8pm on Sunday. It’s almost half the 12,985 tests in NSW the previous 24 hours.

“NSW is at a critical point, and the only way to find new cases and prevent further transmission is to increase testing.

“NSW Health is appealing to the community to come forward for testing right away if anyone has even the mildest of symptoms like a runny nose or scratchy throat, cough, fever or other symptoms that could be COVID-19.

“This is particularly important in South Western Sydney, Western Sydney and South Eastern Sydney where there have been recent locally transmitted cases.”

NSW eases more restrictions ahead of Christmas

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters on Monday “we are reasonably concerned” as test rates are “a bit low”.

While residents are being urged to get tested, particularly those in South Western Sydney, Western Sydney and South Eastern Sydney, a number of Covid restrictions have been eased.

The premier said group bookings in restaurants will increase from 10 to 30 with outdoor gatherings increased to 30 from 20.

“This is good news to allow people to prepare for Christmas and the celebrations over summer,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I would like to ask families to consider perhaps going to a restaurant or a hotel or a formal hospitality venue for Christmas, for Christmas lunch this year or Christmas dinner.

“The health experts will tell you it is much safer having people in a Covid-safe environment with social distancing than it could be in a confined space with a family home, especially for people gathering, living together and unfortunately, during the summer period leading up to Christmas, if you have any symptoms, you are going to have to exclude yourself of many of those events.

“I know it is important and really difficult.”

From December 1, up to 300 people will also be able to attend a wedding or a corporate event.

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