The true numbers of covid cases are not currently known due to testing limitations but the number of confirmed cases in the Western Local Health District (LHD) has doubled in the past two days up to 1059 for cases reported to 8pm last night (7 January) from 524 recorded on Thursday 5 January. 

While yesterday's decision by the NSW Government to make it a requirement to report positive results from Rapid Antigen Tests should help address the gap in knowledge, the reporting that was officially due to start today (Saturday 8 January), is not yet possible as the systems enable this to happen have not been finalised. 

It is expected that you will be able to register your positive rapid antigen tests through the Service NSW app by mid next week, however, it is not yet clear whether other measures will be available for those without smartphones or internet access. 

Among today's reported numbers are 20 new cases each in Coonamble and Warrumbungle shires, 16 in Cobar, 14 in Walgett shire (including 2 Collarenebri, 1 Lightning Ridge), 12 in Warren, 8 in Narromine, 5 in Gilgandra, 4 in Brewarrina, 3 each in Bogan and Lachlan shires, and just 1 case in Bourke. 

While the region's blowout is mainly being felt in the south and east (Bathurst 272, Dubbo 238, Orange 214, and Mudgee/Mid-Western 111), it is highly likely there are many more undiagnosed cases in our western communities where covid PCR testing is limited and RATs are not readily available. 

Health authorities are urging the use of common sense to help limit the spread as well as abiding by the Latest COVID-19 rules . 

"Regardless of the confirmed number in your town, plan what your COVID-safety measures are and practice them at all times," a Western LHD spokesperson said. 

"Be particularly careful around older people, or people with health conditions."  

"Have a plan ready for if you, or someone in your household, needs to self-isolate with COVID-19, or while waiting for test results," they said.  

What to do when your RAT shows positive? 

NSW Health has provided to following guidelines, current as of today, for those who's Rapid Antigen Test has shown a positive result: 

Live links and further information available here

You do not need to have your rapid antigen test confirmed with a PCR test unless you are: 

• pregnant (>20 weeks gestation) 
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 
• unvaccinated (16 years and over) 
• immunosuppressed 
• a worker, resident, patient, or client in a high-risk setting where there is not a current confirmed outbreak. High risk settings include: healthcare, aged care, disability care, and correctional facilities 
• asked to by a registered medical practitioner. 

If you are having difficulty or delays in accessing a PCR test, you should call the NSW Health COVID-19 Care at Home Support Line on 1800 960 933.