One new case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) in the last 24 hours.

NNSWLHD chief executive Wayne Jones said the new case is a person who arrived at Ballina airport from Melbourne on Sunday, July 12, on Jetstar flight JQ466. 

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Mr Jones said the person was screened on arrival at Ballina airport. 

“Since arriving in Northern NSW, this person has been in mandatory 14-day self- isolation. Any potential close contacts are being followed up,” he said.

Now, the total number of cases discovered in the local area since the pandemic began is 56.

Mr Jones said of the 56 cases, 53 have recovered and there are no cases being treated in hospital. 

By likely source of infection, 52 of the cases were acquired overseas or interstate acquired, 3 were locally acquired, with one of those cases not having a source identified and 1 case is under investigation.

Mr Jones said NNSWLHD is encouraging anyone with symptoms, however mild, to self-isolate and get tested. 

“Anyone with symptoms is also advised to refrain from visiting aged care facilities and hospitals,” he said.

Everyone is also reminded to maintain physical distancing and hand hygiene. Anyone who is unable to practise physical distancing should wear a mask. 

More than 4,900 people have been tested during the last fortnight in NNSWLHD. Testing is free and available to everyone in the region, including visitors. 

The site locations are/can be found at: https://nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/about/covid-19-clinic- information/ 

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