18 October 2021

Handful of new COVID-19 cases in Southern NSW, 18 in Murrumbidgee

| Kim Treasure
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NSW has now passed the 80 per cent fully vaccinated mark for over-16s. Photo: File.

As NSW passes the 80 per cent fully vaccinated mark for people aged 16-plus and children start to return to school, COVID-19 case numbers in the southern region remain low.

Southern NSW Local Health District (SNSWLHD) has been notified of five new cases in the 24 hours to 8 pm yesterday, including three in the Queanbeyan-Palerang local government area.

Of the five new cases:

  • One case is in Queanbeyan, and two cases are in Jerrabomberra. All are being investigated.
  • One new case is Yass and is linked to a known case.
  • One case is in Gundaroo and is being investigated.

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In the Murrumbidgee Local Health District, 18 new cases were recorded in the most recent reporting period.

  • Nine cases are residents of the Albury LGA, three have been linked to previously known cases and six remain under investigation.
  • Six cases are residents of the Greater Hume LGA, two are linked to previously known cases and four remain under investigation.
  • Two cases are residents of the Murray River LGA and are linked to previously known cases.
  • One case is a resident of the Edward River LGA and is linked to previously known cases.

NSW recorded 265 COVID-19 cases and five deaths.

While the numbers continue to track downwards, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet is cautioning people to expect a resurgence as restrictions ease.

“This is not over. There’s a long journey to go,” Mr Perrottet said.

“As mobility increases across the state, case numbers will increase.”

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Students in Year One and 12 returned to the classroom today (18 October), with the other years to return next week.

Outdoor gatherings of up to 50 fully vaccinated people are now permitted and up to 20 visitors are allowed in a home, provided everyone over-16 is vaccinated.

People can stand up while drinking and even dance in most hospitality venues but not yet in nightclubs, which are allowed to reopen so long as people sit down while they drink.

There is no limit on weddings and funerals, and the five-person cap at hairdressers and beauticians is also gone.

Vaccinated office workers are no longer required to wear masks at work, but masks are still required in other indoor areas such as on public transport or in a shop.

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