Batemans Bay residents are being asked to come forward for COVID-19 testing after fragments of the virus were detected at the local sewage treatment plant for the second time in a month.
“The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in sewage may reflect the presence of people who have recovered from COVID-19 such as people released from hotel isolation returning to their place of residence,” NSW Health said in a statement.
“However, NSW Health is concerned there could be other active cases in the local community in people who have not been tested and who might incorrectly assume their symptoms are just a cold.”
NSW Health is currently treating 80 COVID-19 cases, none of whom are in intensive care.
Most cases – 96% – are being treated in non-acute, out-of-hospital care, including returned travellers in the Special Health Accommodation.
There were 11,622 COVID-19 tests reported to 8pm last night, compared with 14,508 in the previous 24 hours.Â
“NSW Health continues to urge people in south-western Sydney to get tested if they have any symptoms after fragments of the virus that causes COVID-19 were detected at the Liverpool sewage treatment plant,” the health authority said in a statement.Â
“While testing numbers have increased during the week, there are still too few people coming forward for testing. With restrictions eased and borders having reopened, now is not the time to be complacent.
“Please come forward for testing immediately even with mild symptoms. Don’t wait to see if your runny nose or sore throat goes away.”
There are more than 300 COVID-19 testing locations across NSW. To find your nearest clinic visit COVID-19 testing clinics or contact your GP.
