Barwon Health reports 27 close COVID contacts still isolating

Coronavirus testing numbers have steadied across the region as Barwon Health revealed over 20 close contacts remain in isolation.

Dozens of Barwon region residents identified as close contacts to growing coronavirus clusters in Victoria and NSW are still being monitored by Barwon Health.

The health service revealed it was currently monitoring 27 close contacts who were quarantining after contact with a confirmed case.

It comes almost two weeks after it was revealed up to 100 local people were in quarantine before New Year as borders closed.

Testing numbers boomed across the state as returned travellers rushed home from holidays.

Local demand has steaded in recent days, with 244 tests at Barwon Health testing sites on Thursday, and 164 on Friday.

“We encourage anyone with symptoms or people who have been at a Melbourne exposure site or the Greater Brisbane area since 2 January to get tested,” a Barwon Health statement read.

“We have increased hours at our testing clinics over the weekend for people requiring an appointment.”

In a bid to stop the spread of the virus from overseas, the federal government announced masks would be mandatory on all national and international flights

Avalon Airport CEO Justin Giddings welcomed the move, hoping it would help keep travel safe over summer.

“I think it’s a sensible decision and minimises any risk,” he said.

“Wearing masks is compulsory in the terminal, so why not on the plane as well? Anything that helps people regain confidence in travel is welcomed.”

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Originally published as Barwon Health reports 27 close COVID contacts still isolating