Covid Update: Case in Hunter New England

THE Department of Health have confirmed there is a case of coronavirus in the Glen Innes Severn Local Government Area, the first positive case in the Hunter New England Local Health district since August 5 last year, serving as a reminder that regional Australia is not immune.

The man in his 30s was exposed to the virus at the Granites gold mine in the Tanami Desert in the Northern Territory, which is not linked to the Bondi cluster.

Dr David Durrheim, Public Health Controller for Hunter New England Health’s COVID-19
response, said it is a timely reminder for rural and regional communities.

“We are at a real tipping point in the pandemic. While there is little risk of infection from this
latest case, it’s important that we all remain vigilant.

“I urge everyone to adhere to the restrictions put in place yesterday by the NSW Government.
We need to wear our masks, practice hygiene measures, and maintain our distance to keep this
virus at bay. It is critical that we all continue to check-in to venues using the QR codes
provided,” he said.

Anyone who has returned from this mine to NSW since 18 June should immediately isolate and
call their local public health unit on 1300 066 055.