7 July 2022
A rise in COVID-19 cases in the Northern Territory and Australia recently have been driven by the BA4 and BA5 Omicron variants and are a timely reminder for Territorians to remain vigilant with the virus.
Overnight, 353 new cases of coronavirus were recorded, making a total of 1977 active cases, with 19 hospitalisations. No patients are currently in the ICU.
Genomic surveillance indicates 35 per cent of the NT’s COVID-19 cases are BA4 and BA5 variants.
It is predicted COVID-19 hospitalisations will begin to rise in the NT in the coming week, but the figures are not expected to be as high as the previous peak in the Northern Territory.
People who are in a high-risk category should see their GP before they become unwell to prepare a COVID-19 plan. High risk people include those with existing health conditions, pregnant women and people aged over 65 years.
Anti-viral treatments are available for people with COVID-19 who are at higher risk but timing is critical. Treatments are most effective when taken within five days of symptoms first starting.
The current rise in COVID-19 cases is a timely reminder for Territorians to stay up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations. The COVID-19 vaccine is widely available at participating GP clinics, pharmacies, respiratory clinics and Aboriginal health clinics.
To help stop the spread of COVID-19, all Territorians should:
· Stay up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations, ensuring you receive a booster dose within six months of your last dose
· Wear masks when social distancing is not possible
· Take a Rapid Antigen Test if you experience symptoms and register positive results online
· Stay at home if you’re unwell
Free Rapid Antigen Tests are available from a number of participating GP clinics, Aboriginal health clinics and remote health clinics across the NT, thanks to the hard work and organisation of NT Health.
They can also be purchased from pharmacies and supermarkets.
Quotes Attributable to Chief Minister Natasha Fyles:
“The growing numbers of the BA4 and BA5 are a reminder to Territorians that while we have moved out of a State of Emergency and are moving away from the pandemic, COVID-19 has not left us.
“Territorians need to remain vigilant and should still be following advice to help stop the spread of COVID-19 where possible.”
Northern Territory Government
