A sharp rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in the Northern NSW Local Health District could just be the tip of iceberg.
There's been a 72 per cent increase in the number of cases in the space of a week.
Director North Coast Population and Public Health, Dr Paul Douglas, said protecting each other was especially important given the current wave of cases and the seasonal movement of people into the region.
"We have seen a 72 per cent increase in recorded local COVID-19 cases, from 319 cases recorded in the week to Saturday 5 November, up to 548 cases recorded in the week ending Saturday, November 12. However, the prevalence of the virus may be higher than these figures show," Dr Douglas said.
"We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable spring and summer period which is why we're asking people to do the little things which help reduce the risk of transmission among family, friends and community.
"Wear a mask indoors in situations where you may be in close contact with others, such as shopping centres, public transport or group settings.
"Stay at home if you have any cold or flu symptoms, and get tested with a RAT or PCR test. Please record your positive RAT test using Service NSW so you can get connected to care."
Anyone who feels unwell, or who has tested positive to COVID-19, should not visit aged care facilities or hospitals, and should postpone any contact with vulnerable people.
People who are at risk of severe disease, including the elderly or immunocompromised, are encouraged to make an appointment with their GP as a pre-emptive measure to discuss eligibility for antivirals and pathology test referral should they become unwell.
"Please keep in touch with your doctor because they know your medical history best, and you may be eligible for antivirals which can prevent severe disease, hospitalisation and death," Dr Douglas said.
"Current COVID-19 vaccines still protect against serious disease, so please make sure you're up to date. For most people that means having your initial two doses, plus two booster doses of a COVID-19 vaccine."
To book your vaccination, please visit the COVID-19 vaccine clinic finder.
