NSW Covid update: Nine new Omicron cases, Argyle House cluster grows

Sixty new Covid infections linked to a NSW nightclub has been detected overnight as the state recorded nine new Omicron cases.

The number of Covid cases linked to a Newcastle nightclub have exploded with hundreds of people ordered to isolate just 12 days before Christmas.

NSW Health confirmed on Monday that 84 people linked to the Argyle House nightclub have now tested positive – a jump of 60 new infections overnight with some “likely” to have the Omicron variant.

It comes as NSW recorded 536 new Covid cases and no new deaths on Monday, with 94.8 per cent of eligible adults over 16 with a single dose and 93.1 per cent fully vaccinated.

Nine new cases recorded were Omicron variant infections, bringing the state’s total to 64.

UPDATED ADVICE - Argyle House patrons
Anyone who attended between 9pm 8 Dec to 3am 9 December is now a close contact. All close contacts, and members of household, must immediately get tested and self-isolate, and follow the close contact advice:https://t.co/N6Mme58v2jpic.twitter.com/JQxTIxiUZ5

— HNE Health (@HNEHealth) December 12, 2021

“So far, 84 people linked to the nightclub have tested positive to Covid-19 … a number of these cases are likely to be the Omicron variant,” a statement from health officials read.

“All 680 people who checked in using the QR code to attend the venue from 9pm, December 8 to 3am, December 9 have been assessed as close contacts and must immediately get tested and isolate for 7 days.”

Authorities also asked anyone who did not check in using the QR code at Argyle House to urgently get tested and isolate, and for community members to fill in any punters who went to the nightclub and hadn’t heard about the Covid exposure.

They also asked “given the high transmission” at the venue, household contacts of anyone who was at the nightclub should also get tested and isolate until the close contact tests negative.

“NSW Health is urging everyone of the importance of maintaining Covid-safe practices with transmission occurring at social events during the festive period,” the statement read.

“Everyone should remain vigilant when celebrating with family, friends and colleagues and should not attend any social functions if they have any symptoms.”

Three initial cases of Covid were confirmed at Argyle House on December 11.

A statement from the venue said at the time the club would stay closed until December 15.

“We have been notified by Hunter New England Health of 3 confirmed cases of COVID-19 who attended The Argyle House while potentially infectious,” Argyle House operators wrote.

“As a result of this our staff are isolating and getting tested, therefore we will be closed tonight. We apologise if this ruins your plans this evening … we’ll be back open on Wednesday, stay safe Newcastle.”