Four new cases of Covid have been reported in the Lismore Local Government Area (LGA), adding to a total of 81 new cases across the health district. 

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) chief executive Wayne Jones said none of the cases have been identified as the Omicron variant of concern. 

There are currently no COVID-positive patients in hospital in Northern NSW, but Mr Jones urges people to get tested for COVID-19 at the first sign of symptoms and isolate until a negative result is received.  

“With rising case numbers, it is important for vaccinated people to have a booster once eligible,” he said.

Of the 81 new cases across local LGAs, 65 are in Byron, 9 in Ballina, 1 in Richmond Valley, 1 in Tweed, and 1 in Clarence Valley. 

16 cases have now been linked with No Bones in Byron Bay, while 14 cases are linked with Casa Luna in Byron Bay. 

Investigations into additional cases potentially linked to the Coorabell Hall are ongoing. 

Get tested for your nearest and dearest 

“We are urging anyone with cold and flu-like symptoms to come forward for testing now, particularly younger people,” Mr Jones said.

“We continue to remind everyone across the community to continue to practice COVID-Safe behaviours, including wearing a mask in settings where you cannot physically distance. 

“Get tested and stay home if you have the mildest of symptoms. Do not go out and visit family, friends or go to social events if you are unwell.

“Practice good hand hygiene, washing and sanitising your hands regularly.” 

There are more than 450 COVID-19 testing locations across NSW. Find your nearest clinic on the NSW Government website or contact your GP. 

Vaccination your key to staying out of hospital  

“If you have not yet been vaccinated against COVID-19, we encourage you to get vaccinated as soon as you are able to,” Mr Jones said. 

“NSW Health are urging people to get their booster dose as soon as they are eligible, to best protect yourself, your loved ones and the community from the ongoing transmission of COVID-19. 

“Everyone aged 18 and older may receive a booster dose five months after receiving their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. 

“We also strongly recommend that people aged 12 years and over who are severely immunocompromised have a third primary dose of vaccine from two months after their second dose. Talk to your doctor for more advice.”

You can find your closest vaccination clinic at the Australian Government’s COVID 19 Vaccine Clinic Finder.