Confirmed COVID-19 case in city

Published on 17 August 2021

UPDATE FROM FAR WEST LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT:

There is one confirmed case of COVID-19 in the Far West Local Health District (FWLHD), in the Broken Hill local government area. They are in isolation.

The case was identified after they became symptomatic on 16 August and were infectious from 13 August 2021. The person has travelled in the community whilst infectious, including to Wilcannia.

Close contacts who have been identified to date are in isolation, and undergoing testing. Investigations and contact tracing are continuing.

It is not yet known how transmission occurred. Fragments of COVID-19 have been detected in Broken Hill sewage samples taken on 12 August 2021.

While Broken Hill residents are urged to limit their movements in the community at this time, widespread COVID-19 testing is critical.

The FWLHD will be increasing testing capacity in Broken Hill as of today.

There will be a Pop Up COVID testing clinic operating today at the Aged Persons Rest Centre (Blende Street) and at the Alma Oval, both operating 11.30am to 4pm today. The Alma Oval clinic can accommodate drive thru tests.

A COVID Drive Through testing clinic is operating at Memorial Oval (Broken Hill). Entry is via Williams Street and the hours of operation are 8am to 5pm, seven days a week. Everyone is asked to follow the traffic control directions, and exit is via Warnock Street (left turn only).

Anyone in Broken Hill who is currently experiencing, or has recently experienced, even mild cold-like symptoms is asked to come forward immediately for testing.

Visitor restrictions have been implemented at all FWLHD facilities including Broken Hill Health Service.