Official covid case numbers continue to climb across the Western Plains region, despite limited testing available during public holidays, and health officials are recommending that all households put a 'Plan C' in place in case a household member tests positive.

Up to 8pm last night (Sunday 26 December) 24 of the 93 new cases reported in the Western NSW Local Health District (LHD) were in the small towns of the western plains and numbers in the Dubbo LGA exploded to 42. 

Warrumbungle and Bogan shires recorded 5 cases each, including 1 case in Nymagee. 

Warren had 4 new cases, Coonamble and Walgett shires had 3, there were 2 new cases in Narromine, and one each in Cobar and Condobolin. 

There are now 2 cases in hospital, with neither in intensive care. 

With testing facilities in many smaller towns closed due to public holidays, some residents are choosing to take advantage of Dubbo's drive-through clinic, however, the rapidly increasing numbers there are seeing delays of around 2 hours at the Showground clinic. 

Preparation, not panic 

The Western LHD are repeating recommendations that households ensure they have a plan in place in case someone in the household needs to self-isolate. 

Mark Spittal, WNSWLHD Acting Chief Executive, said, “The way we live with COVID-19 is changing and stopping the spread is now the responsibility of everyone as individuals, being prepared is part of that responsibility. 

“So we are encouraging everyone to form what we call a ‘Plan C’, to ensure you know what to do and can safely manage should you, a household member or a loved one test positive for COVID-19. 

NSW Health says a Plan C should include: 

• What to do if you have COVID-19 and who you need to inform. 
• What to do if you are a close contact of someone with COVID-19. 
• How to safely isolate at home and how to safely isolate if you share accommodation. 
• What to do if a dependant or someone you care for tests positive for COVID-19. 
• What supplies you need including food, medication and cleaning or sanitary products. 
• Coping with self-isolation and managing your mental health. 
• Useful contacts to access additional information or support. 

You can access 'Plan C' here