Nine cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Binjari Community, near Katherine.
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According to a statement from NT Health on Saturday night, the new cases follow on from significant COVID-19 testing undertaken in the community on Friday and repeated positive wastewater results.
"The Binjari community - which is located within the Katherine lockdown area - will now enter into a hard lockdown," the statement reads.
"The neighbouring Rockhole community of about 130 people, will also go into a hard lockdown on advice of significant mingling between the communities.
"This means that residents must remain in their home and within their yard, and only leave for medical reasons or in case of an emergency. This is to limit any movement and reduce the spread of COVID-19. Food and essential items will be provided to the community tonight.
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"Additional staff will join the Rapid Assessment Team immediately to increase our resources on the ground"
The nine cases are:
- 31 year old male who is a known close contact
- 39 year old female
- 17 year old male
- 78 year old female who reported to Katherine Hospital with symptoms. She is being transferred to Royal Darwin Hospital tonight.
- 23 year old female
- 18 year old male
- 45 year old male
- 21 year old male
- 38 year old female
Significant work will be undertaken overnight and more updates on the evolving COVID-19 situation in Binjari will be provided in the morning, according to NT Health.
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