Media Alert
Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet COVID-19 Update
4 January 2022
There were 75 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the Northern Territory up until 8pm on 3 January 2022.
Of the 75 COVID-19 cases reported:
· 3 cases are community transmission
· 40 cases are interstate arrivals
· 4 cases are from overseas arrivals
· 21 cases are close contacts of known cases
· 7 cases are under investigation
There are currently 24 patients in hospital, with four classified as acute hospital admissions. No COVID-19 patients are in ICU.
More than 1830 COVID-19 tests were processed across the NT yesterday.
Border Entry Changes
A pre-arrival COVID-19 PCR test is no longer required upon entering the Northern Territory, effective immediately.
All arrivals are now required to undertake a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) within two hours of arriving in the Northern Territory if travelling by air and within two hours of reaching a Rapid Antigen Test Distribution Centre if traveling by road. You are also required to submit a declaration that you have carried out this test within two hours of arrival in the Territory. Rapid Antigen Tests are provided for free at the airport or at NT Distribution Centres.
All arrivals are still required to undertake a Rapid Antigen Test on Day 3 and Day 6 after arriving in the NT.
As proof, a photo must be taken of each of the test results, the packaging displaying the batch number and a document identifying yourself. This must be submitted as part of the approved online declaration , within two hours of arrival and no later than Day 8 after arriving in the NT.
Close Contacts and Public Exposure Sites
Close contacts will be sent a text message informing them that they have been in proximity to a positive COVID-19 case or to a public exposure site. It is important you follow the instructions in the message and get tested and isolate as required.
It is critical all people check-in using The Territory Check In app everywhere, every time, no matter how long you are there for. This will assist in contact tracing and in sending public exposure site text message alerts to the community.
COVID-19 Testing
Everyone should get tested for COVID-19 if showing symptoms such as a cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches, change in taste or smell and a sore throat.
COVID-19 testing sites are open in Nhulunbuy, Katherine, Darwin, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs. Testing is also available at NT Health clinics in remote communities.
Due to the high volume of testing at the East Arm COVID-19 Testing Site, bookings are recommended. The staff at the testing centre may determine whether a RAT or a PCR test is the most appropriate.
To arrange a COVID-19 test please book online or contact the COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 490 484.
An indoor mask wearing mandate is in place in the Northern Territory.
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading in our communities, it is important for everyone to follow all the health directions.
Book your COVID-19 vaccine Check in using The Territory Check In App every time, everywhereIf you have symptoms, stay away from others and get tested for COVID-19Wash your hands with soap and water and use hand sanitiser regularlyDo not go to work if you feel sickMaintain a physical distance of 1.5 metres where possible.
