COVID-19 fragments detected in Merimbula sewage system

24 April 2021

NSW Health has advised that fragments of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been detected in the sewage system at Merimbula.

Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Cr Russell Fitzpatrick said that while this might indicate the presence of people who have recently recovered from COVID-19, as they can continue to shed fragments of the virus for several weeks after recovery, it was a timely reminder to monitor for symptoms and get tested if you’re feeling unwell.

“This doesn’t mean we have any active cases in the shire, but we need to stay alert,” Cr Fitzpatrick said.

“If you’re feeling unwell, even with mild symptoms, please get tested and self-isolate until you receive a negative result.

“And of course, practising good hand hygiene and using QR codes to check in at venues are also important to help keep our community safe.”

COVID-19 symptoms include a sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever or headache.

A full list of clinics and opening hours is available at https://www.snswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/our-services/infectious-disease/covid-19

For the latest COVID-19 updates and advice, please go to https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19

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