Gunnedah Shire Mayor, Jamie Chaffey, has asked for calm as the community records a positive case of COVID-19.
NSW Health advised the Shire of the positive case after first detecting fragments of the virus in a sample taken from the Gunnedah Sewage Treatment Plant on September 13.
Mayor Chaffey said while the community awaits further information about the case, it was important to be alert but remain calm.
“This case is currently under investigation with information for the community to be provided by NSW Health when accurate information is available,” Cr Chaffey said.
“This person is currently in isolation and I wish them a speedy recovery.
“At this point we believe the case has been in isolation since before they were infectious, however investigations are still ongoing. In the meantime, we need to remain vigilant. It is vitally important we go out and get tested even if we are experiencing only mild COVID-19 symptoms. Please continue to follow the advice that Hunter New England Health are providing.”
He has also strongly urged residents against panic buying in the north-eastern NSW town.
“We know from experience that we have secure supply chains and do not need to worry,” he said.
“Today’s news is a timely reminder to continue to boost our vaccination rate, and this week’s Royal Flying Doctor Service vaccination clinics have come at a good time. If you have not yet had your vaccine I encourage you to come forward and get it done.
“If we continue to look out for each other, lift our vaccination rate and follow all restrictions, I know we will get through this and can look forward to getting back to a more normal way of life soon.”
For a full list of testing locations visit https://bit.ly/39bnaNY. Information on local vaccination options is available at https://bit.ly/3nDhC7e.
