Other measures introduced late last month – including mandatory indoor masks, a two square metre density limit for hospitality venues, and mandatory QR code check-ins – also remain in force until January 27.
People have been encouraged to use “common sense” by limiting large household gatherings, as well as gathering outdoors where possible.
NSW will also update its mandatory vaccine rules, to require people who were previously required to be double-dosed – including health staff, aviation workers and teachers – to receive their booster when eligible.
It comes as modelling released by NSW Health on Friday estimated the state would reach a peak of 4700 COVID-positive hospitalisations by late January.
When 38,625 cases were recorded on Friday, NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said the figure was an “underestimate” due to strains on testing. About half of all detected infections are in people aged 20 to 39, she said.
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Throughout the current wave, it has been a requirement for a person to seek out a PCR test – which have had long queues and long waits for results – to be recorded in the daily case numbers.
This will change from next week, when positive rapid antigen tests will be able to be reported to health authorities through the Service NSW app. A positive rapid test result will not have to be confirmed by a PCR test, and a person with COVID can be linked to health services.
Public health orders are expected to be updated to make this report of rapid antigen test results mandatory.
Speaking on Friday, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said non-urgent elective surgery will also be suspended until the end of February “to alleviate pressure on the hospital system and staff”.
Doctors have warned hospital emergency departments are approaching capacity, as staff deal with the surge in COVID-positive presentations while 5200 healthcare workers are in isolation.
Amongst the positive cases in NSW is former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, who said he is currently experiencing “moderate” symptoms.
“Like hundreds of thousands of other Australians I have tested positive for covid. Symptoms moderate so far. Isolating as required,” Mr Turnbull said on social media on Saturday.
“This pandemic and especially this latest wave has put our health professionals under enormous pressure – please be polite and considerate when dealing with the front line health workers. Whatever failures there have been in planning and preparation are NOT their fault.
“They have had two years of relentless pressure and it’s now at its most intense. So give them the love and respect they deserve, please.”
with Mary Ward and Lucy Carroll
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NSW records 45,098 new COVID cases, 9 deaths as new restrictions come into force
Source: Philippines Alive
