NSW records zero local COVID-19 cases, three in hotel quarantine

NSW Health has warned people to stay vigilant as the state records zero local cases, saying COVID-19 spreads “silently, invisibly, and inadvertently”.

New South Wales recorded no new locally acquired COVID-19 infections in the 24 hour period up to 8pm on Saturday night.

Three new cases are in hotel quarantine, according to numbers released on Sunday.

It comes after one new local case was reported on Saturday, down from four on Friday.

The state has now recorded a total of 4,273 infections since January 25 this year.

NSW health is currently treating 63 COVID-19 patients, but just one requires intensive care.

Cars queue at Prestons drive-through COVID-19 testing clinic at the Ash Road Sporting Complex in Sydney. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Jenny Evans

NSW Health’s Dr Michael Douglas said the source of a recent local outbreak at Moss Vale remains under investigation.

“Due to these and other recent cases, the call for testing continues to apply,” he said.

He said that message is particularly targeted at communities in south-western Sydney, including Leppington, Hoxton Park and Prestons.

People who have lived in or visited the Southern Highlands region — including Moss Vale, Mittagong and Bowral — are also urged to come forward.

Dr Douglas called for vigilance, and issued a reminder that the virus could spread quickly and silently.

“The process of becoming infected and infecting others often occurs silently, invisibly, and inadvertently,” he said.

He said it was particularly important to adhere to COVID-safe practices as the festive season approaches.

“Social and community gatherings are very likely to increase during the upcoming holiday period,” he said.

“It is very likely COVID-19 will continue to circulate in the community, including among people with mild or no symptoms at all.”

Across the border, Victoria on Sunday marked its ninth consecutive day without a new coronavirus case.

The state is preparing to further ease restrictions, with Premier Daniel Andrews confirming the “ring of steel” around Melbourne will be lifted, and the 25km-radius rule will be removed from 11.59pm Sunday.