NSW ‘on track’ to remove restrictions as state records 7437 new Covid-19 cases, 14 deaths

Daily Covid-19 infections in NSW are at their lowest since Christmas, with the Premier hinting when restrictions could end.

Premier Dominic Perrottet has hinted that restrictions could be lifted at the end of the month, as the state’s daily coronavirus infections are at their lowest since Christmas.

NSW recorded 7437 new infections on Monday, with hospitalisations and ICU admissions also easing since the staggering Omicron peak in mid-January.

Another 14 people have died with Covid-19, while 2099 patients were in hospital with the virus and 137 in ICU, down from 2321 and 147 respectively on Sunday.

Mr Perrottet on Monday said the state was “on track” to lift mask and working-from-home restrictions come February 28.

Premier Dominic Perrottet has hinted that restrictions could be lifted at the end of the month. Picture: Gaye Gerard / NCA Newswire

“We rolled those restrictions over but if I look across the state right now we’re in a very strong position,” he told media on Monday.

“I’m confident with where we sit.”

While he can’t promise a date, Mr Perrottet said “everything is going well” in the state.

The Premier again encouraged residents to get their booster shot, with under 44 per cent of the state having received their third dose.

“We need people to get boosted. That puts downward pressure on the health system,” Mr Perrottet said.

“From all accounts, right across the board, NSW is back on the front foot and in a very strong space.”

Monday’s update from NSW Health is another drop from Sunday’s 7893 new infections, the lowest daily total since December 28.

The state recorded 8389 infections on Saturday and 10,698 new cases on Friday.

Monday’s numbers included 3917 positive results from rapid antigen tests and 3520 from PCR tests.

Each household with a child enrolled in school in 2021 are now eligible to apply for the five $50 vouchers through the Service NSW app as a “thank you” for their efforts in homeschooling during the Covid-19 lockdown.

NSW recorded 7437 new infections on Monday. Picture: Gaye Gerard / NCA NewsWire

The vouchers have been brought forward a month and can be spent on accommodation, entertainment and recreational activities, such as the cinema or zoo, until October.

Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello is encouraging parents to make the most of the vouchers.

“We’re encouraging parents and all adults in NSW to take advantage of these various vouchers because they are so good in helping to stimulate the economy,” he said.

“And ultimately helping in particular small businesses that have done it so really hard over the last few years.”

Up to one million families will benefit from the vouchers and can be used seven days a week, including public holidays.

In addition, travel vouchers in the Stay NSW scheme will be available from February 21 allowing all residents over 18 to apply for one $50 voucher to use at registered accommodation across the state.

Originally published as NSW ‘on track’ to remove restrictions as state records 7437 new Covid-19 cases, 14 deaths