New South Wales health experts are calling on the community to “remain vigilant” , with the upcoming holiday period marking the first Christmas in the state without COVID-19 restrictions.
Australians are being warned to “remain vigilant” over the Christmas period as COVID-19 case numbers rapidly rise across New South Wales.
This year marks Australia’s first Christmas without COVID-19 restrictions since the pandemic reached the country’s shores at the beginning of 2020.
In a new health update, NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant advised residents to wear face masks in vulnerable and crowded settings as “transmission remains high” in the community.
“As we head into the busy holiday season, I encourage the community to remain vigilant,” she said.
Stream more on this story and all the latest news with Flash. 25+ news channels in 1 place. New to Flash? Try 1 month free. Offer ends 31 October, 2023
New COVID-19 update from NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant: https://t.co/BY6Tyi1eBX
This week’s surveillance report can be found on our website: https://t.co/qty0m40Hot pic.twitter.com/ZI28K4drCl
“We still request people to wear masks in hospitals and aged care facilities, and it is important that people comply with those requirements in those settings.
“Masks also reduce the risk and are recommended in crowded indoor spaces. You never know who is vulnerable around you.”
Dr Chant assured the state had “passed” the latest virus peak, but concerns a new COVID-19 wave could occur weighs on health experts.
Australia’s borders are open, with increased tourism expected this holiday period, as well as large events to mark the festive season.
In the seven days to December 15, New South Wales recorded 40,695 cases and 74 CPVOD-related deaths.
COVID-19 weekly update – Friday 16 December 2022
In the 7 days to 4pm Thursday 15 December:
-40,695 new cases of COVID-19 have been recorded: 16,614 rapid antigen tests (RATs) and 24,081 PCR tests.
-74 lives lost pic.twitter.com/YJr14oCFBV
Those numbers are much higher than Victoria and Queensland, which recorded 24,652 and 16,600 cases respectively.
Dr Chant warned those coming into contact with vulnerable relatives over Christmas should be extra cautious.
“During this holiday period consider testing to protect your friends and family who may be more at risk of severe disease,” she said.
“Frail, elderly and people with underlying health conditions are more likely to experience serious health outcomes with COVID, such as hospitalisations and death.”
To join the conversation, please log in. Don’t have an account? Register
Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout
Our Apps