THE Omicron variant has reached the region, with a confirmed case in Hunter New England and a Newcastle nightclub exposure from someone "likely to have the Omicron variant of concern".
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Hunter New England Health's Dr David Durrheim said the confirmed case was a young woman returning from the UK, warning the region should expect more overseas arrivals as borders opened. "She's been doing the right thing, she's been isolating for the full period that she's been infectious in Australia, and her close contacts we want to thank as well, they've been isolating and keeping our community safe," he said.
So far 14 of the state's 55 Omicron cases came from overseas, with 31 acquired locally. Only one has been admitted for hospital treatment. Argyle House closed its doors on Saturday after the alert regarding a December 8 exposure from 9pm until 3am the following morning.
"We are concerned about transmission at the Argyle House nightclub, which was visited by a confirmed case of COVID-19 likely to have the Omicron variant of concern," NSW Health's Dr John Hall said. "A public health investigation is underway into transmission of the virus at this location, which is linked to a previously reported outbreak at a party boat cruise on Sydney Harbour on December 3."
Updated advice late on Sunday indicated there were four infectious people at the venue, one of who was likely to have Omicron. Anyone present during the exposure window must self-isolate for seven days if fully vaccinated and then avoid high-risk settings for another week, while unvaccinated patrons must isolate for 14 days. Members of their households must also self-isolate.
"Self-isolation means you may only leave or let others into your house in an emergency or to get tested," Dr Durrheim said.
Two Hunter New England COVID-19 patients are in intensive care. There are 178 active cases in the region.
Dr Hall said it was crucial people stayed vigilant during the festive season.
"Clearly we have seen a number of outbreaks recently across Sydney and now in Newcastle after people with likely to have the Omicron variant of concern attended social gatherings," he said.
"This is one of a number of large social venues such as pubs, clubs and party settings where there is increasing COVID-19 transmission. This is contributing to the increase of cases in NSW."
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