As Christmas approaches, Covid case numbers continue to rise across the region – with 4 new cases reported in Lismore Local Government Area– and 34 new cases in total across the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD).

In Byron LGA, 24 new cases of Covid were reported and the Byron Beach Hotel has been named as a new venue of concern.

Anyone who attended the hotel on Tuesday 14 December 2021, from 12pm to 10pm listed must immediately get tested and isolate until they receive a negative result, even if fully vaccinated or feel well. 

Please refer to the guidelines for casual contacts on the NSW Health website: Casual contacts of COVID-19 - Fact sheets (nsw.gov.au) 

Across the health district, 4 new Covid cases were ported in Ballina LGA, 4 in Tweed and I in Clarence Valley.

There are 5 COVID-positive patients in hospital in Northern NSW. 

NNSWLHD chief executive Wayne Jones is urging people to get tested for COVID-19 at the first sign of symptoms and isolate until a negative result is received.  

“We urge anyone in Northern NSW who develops symptoms such as a runny nose, a scratchy or sore throat, or is generally feeling unwell, to get tested and isolate immediately, even if you are fully vaccinated,” he said.

Mr Jones is also urging people to book their COVID-19 vaccination, or booster if you are eligible, at any of the many GPs, Pharmacies and NSW Health clinics in the region. 

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

Anyone aged 18 and over is eligible for their booster five months after their second dose. Bookings are recommended to ensure you secure your preferred timeslot.