NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet says the state faces ‘’ a difficult few weeks’’ as a result of the new variant. He said while reintroducing several Covid-19 restrictions to fight against the disease. A surge in new cases and hospitalization make it hard for the government as well as for the health authorities. He also said that the elective surgeries will be postponed; singing and dancing in hospitality venues will be banned. Furthermore, several recreational facilities will also be closed. However, weddings have been excluded from the list.
Following the restrictions, there is a greater chance that important events will be subjected to risk assessments from health authorities. Also, there is an option to postpone them for a while at their discretion.
Alleviation of pressure on the hospitals
Mr. Perrottet regarded these changes as ‘’minor’’ and ‘’proportionate’’ which would help in ‘’alleviation of pressure on the hospitals and staff’’. He said, ‘’ Our people and the effort we have made to go out, to get vaccinated, to get boosted, has been key to opening up our society, to living alongside the virus. He added, ‘’ This is a challenging time, not just in New South Wales, but around the world, that the efforts that our people have made has kept New South Wales safe, has kept New South Wales open, and kept New South Wales strong.’’
Premier said that a new reporting system will be available soon that will allow people to log positive rapid antigen test results. He added, ‘’ If you do receive a positive rapid antigen test, we ask that you declare that through Service NSW and NSW health.’’ Talking about organizations, he ensures that unless and until health authorities contact you, proceed with the organized events. Only if there is a high risk involved, then health authorities will contact and plans with the teams to move through the situation.
Covid-Safe policies
Kerry Chant, Chief health officer said that people should avoid going out if they have symptoms. She said, ‘’ if you can just stay with the groups that you normally engage with, don’t go into environments where you’re mixing more broadly.’’
Since NSW has recorded more cases in the past few days. Therefore, the government is introducing these restrictions. Also, making sure that the Covid-safe policies must be ensured to avoid further spread of the disease. Also, the government will extend vaccination mandates to include booster shots. Moreover, non-urgent surgeries will be paused until mid-February. He also extended his gratitude to the health staff.
