The number of Covid-19 cases has increased in Lismore and the Northern Rivers over the last few four weeks.

This journalist tested positive last week with the full checklist of symptoms, like tiredness, hot and cold flushes, headache, sore throat and that pesky cough that lingers when you feel much better.

Conversations yesterday led to two people saying, "Loads of people I know have told me they have it." One was in Lismore, and one in Yamba.

The NSW Respiratory Surveillance Report from NSW Health has the following data on the number of Covid-19 cases reported in Northern NSW:

• 37: week ending 27 April:
• 55: week ending 4 May:
• 114: week ending 18 May:

These are the reported cases of Covid-19, so it is fairly safe to assume that the numbers would be higher than that.

Registration of positive COVID-19 rapid antigen tests (RAT) in NSW ceased on 30 September 2023, and notifications now only reflect cases referred by a doctor for PCR.

There are currently no rules in NSW that require you to self-isolate if you test positive for COVID-19, but it is strongly recommended you stay home until your symptoms have gone and take steps to protect others in our community.

NSW Health says that most people with COVID-19 can manage safely at home.

"Monitor your symptoms. If you are concerned about your symptoms, call your doctor. If you can’t contact your doctor, use the online Service Finder to find one near you or call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 (free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week). If symptoms become severe, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

"If you are at higher risk of severe illness and have tested positive, speak to your doctor as soon as possible. You may be eligible for antiviral medicines. COVID-19 antiviral medicines work best if taken as soon as possible, and within 5 days from when your symptoms start."

If you are unwell, wear a mask if you need to go out of the house.