COVID-19: New England Police and Armidale Regional Council call for calm

Armidale was one of four locations across the state identified by NSW Health on Thursday - along with Dubbo, Woy Woy and Castle Hill - where fragments of the virus were detected in sewage, meaning people have either passed through and stopped with the virus or someone in those areas is recovering from COVID-19.

This is the second time the virus fragments have been found in Armidale sewage.

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When COVID-19 particles were detected last week, it was the first time the virus had been detected in sewage surveillance programs across the Armidale and Tamworth regions, which have been occurring weekly for almost a year.

However, New England Police District Chief Inspector David Cooper said calls to Armidale police regarding current COVID-19 regulations and to report regulation breaches did not increase following last week's finding.

"We've had a continued steady flow of members of the public reporting breaches, and we don't fob them off - we always investigate them," he said.

"This latest announcement might increase this a bit, but we've also been proactive about increasing our presence in public places, and on the whole, most people have been very compliant.

"None of our country areas can afford to be complacent because it is only a matter of time before we have a problem. It is important to remain vigilant, and if you have symptoms at all, go and get tested."

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This consistent approach by residents to reporting was also reflected in the relaxed response in Armidale resident COVID-19 testing numbers following the initial fragment find last week.

Figures given to the Express on Monday by Hunter New England Health indicated testing numbers were either on par or below the previous week.

Armidale Regional Council (ARC) said it will continue to work closely with NSW Health on the matter and confirmed it had not received any official advice from them following Thursday's announcement.

"NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant has today announced that COVID-19 fragments have been detected in Armidale's sewer tests," ARC general manager James Roncon said.

"While it was previously thought the fragments were linked to an old case, the levels detected indicate this may not be the case.

"Though there are currently no active cases of COVID-19 in the Armidale region, we are encouraging the community to not be complacent and get tested, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms."

Mr Roncon stressed it was important that residents remain calm and follow the directions of the Public Health Order.

"Including continuing to wear face masks, socially distance and use sanitiser," he said.

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