NT Covid update 20 December

NT Government

The Northern Territory has recorded three new cases of COVID-19.

The three cases are linked to the NT outbreak, bringing the total number of cases to 112.

These include two cases from an outstation near Barrow Creek, and one case from Tennant Creek, who is in quarantine at the Centre for National Resilience (CNR). Contact tracing is underway.

There are new exposure sites but as all contacts have been identified, no further public action is required.

There are currently 13 people with COVID-19 in hospital, with one case in ICU at the Alice Springs Hospital.

Lockdown for Tennant Creek

Lockdown in Tennant Creek will be extended until 5pm on Wednesday, 22 December 2021. This will align with the current lockdown for Ali Curung which is in place until 5pm on Wednesday, 22 December 2021.

During a lockdown, residents must stay at home and are only permitted to leave for the following five reasons:

1. Medical treatment, including COVID testing or vaccination

2. For essential goods and services, like groceries, medications and power tokens. Only one household member should visit the store, once per day.

3. For essential work.

4. For one hour of outdoor exercise a day within 5 km from your home with one other person or people from your house.

5. To provide care and support to a family member or person who cannot support themselves. In case of an emergency.

Masks must be worn outside of the home.

Mask mandates

The mask mandate for the Barkly Local Government Area has been extended until 5pm on Wednesday, 22 December 2021.

The mask mandate in the below communities will be lifted immediately:

Barunga, Beswick, Bulla, Daguragu, Gilwi, Katherine, Kalkarindji, Lajamanu, Manyallaluk, Pigeon Hole and Timber Creek.

COVID-19 testing

More than 3200 COVID-19 tests were processed across the NT yesterday.

COVID-19 testing sites are open in Tennant Creek, Katherine, Alice Springs, Nhulunbuy and Darwin and testing is available at NT Health clinics in remote communities.

To arrange a COVID-19 test please book online at here or contact the COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 490 484.

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 here

· Check in using The Territory Check In App every time, everywhere

· If you have symptoms, stay away from others and get tested for COVID-19

· Wash your hands with soap and water and use hand sanitiser regularly

· Do not go to work if you feel sick

· Maintain a physical distance of 1.5 metres where possible.

/Public Release. View in full here.