NSW has recorded its first community-transmitted case of COVID-19 in 13 days after a 45-year-old Sydney airport driver returned a positive test for the virus.
“NSW Health was notified this morning of a new case of COVID-19 in a person who works at Sydney Ground Transport, Alexandria, which provides transport for aircrew from the airport to their hotel. This case will be included in tomorrow’s numbers,” the health authority said in a statement today.
“The source of the case remains under investigation. Urgent genome sequencing is underway. Testing of close contacts of the case is also urgently underway.
“Sydney Ground Transport, Alexandria has been very cooperative. They have temporarily ceased operations while investigations and cleaning are underway.”
The man, who reportedly works as a van driver transporting international and domestic airline crew to and from the airport, developed coronavirus symptoms on Saturday and went for testing on Tuesday.
NSW Health Minister, Brad Hazzard said the case had been confirmed on Tuesday evening.
Chief Health Officer, Professor Kerry Chant said the man’s employer, Sydney Ground Transport in Alexandria, was assisting with contact tracing efforts.
It’s understood the man did not transport anyone from the general public as part of his role with the company.
“He has three household contacts, and they have been tested and we are expecting results in the next hour or so,” Prof Chant said.
The case is the first infection since a positive case was detected in a quarantine hotel cleaner on December 3.
“Further advice will be provided should any additional information about community risks be identified,” said NSW Health.
Meanwhile, seven new cases have reported in overseas travellers in the last 24 hours to 8pm last night.
