COVID-19 means staying keen on social distancing

With the onset of cooler weather expected this weekend and the flu season on the doorstep Byron Shire residents are reminded to remain vigilant in the battle against COVID-19.

The latest information from the Northern NSW Local Health District (as at 8pm 30 April) shows no new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the region.

The total number of confirmed cases remains at 56, with 45 people having recovered.

Byron Shire Mayor, Simon Richardson, said this was terrific news for not just the Byron Shire, but the entire Northern Rivers area.

“We have only been able to get these results because of the care, commitment and diligence of our community,” Mayor Richardson said.

“I also ask anyone who is not feeling well and has symptoms of COVID-19, however mild, to go to the Byron Central Hospital, or to Lismore or Tweed hospitals, and get tested.

“More than 6,000 people have been tested in the Northern Rivers so far and this needs to continue, now more than ever.

“With the NSW Government announcing a slight easing in restrictions, this is great news, but it is also not the time to be complacent or slack,” he said.

“We may be winning the battle against COVID-19 but the war is a long way from being over so let’s continue to keep the 1.5m from people, and to respect the rules regarding social gatherings.

“People can use our parks and beaches for exercise but playgrounds and skateparks remain closed so I am asking everyone to accept this small, temporary inconvenience and not tear down barrier tape as some people have been doing – this is a time to be considerate of everyone in the community,” Mayor Richardson said.

Information about the impact of COVID-19 on Council services is available at www.byron.nsw.gov.au.

Free testing for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, tiredness, cough or sore throat, is available at the Byron Central Hospital, seven days a week, from 10am – 4pm.

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