FOR THE second day in a row, the Western Plains have recorded only a single new case of COVID-19, despite a surge across other parts of regional NSW.

The increase in transmission, as well as the emergence of the new Omicron variant around the state, has resulted in the local health district instating further visitor restrictions for NSW health facilities.

Up to 8pm last night, there were 29 new cases identified in the Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD), one of which was from Walgett.

Other cases recorded were from Orange (11), Dubbo (four), Blayney shire (four), Bathurst (three), Mudgee (two), Gulgong (two), Parkes (one) and Oberon (one).

COVID testing clinics are available in all these locations and can be found here along with details for how to book an appointment if necessary.

Surveillance testing is available and encouraged for people who will not have to isolate provided they and no members of their household are symptomatic and are not considered close contacts.

At this stage, there is only one WNSWLHD case of COVID-19 that is hospitalised, however they are not in intensive care.

138 people are currently being looked after in WNSWLHD's COVID Care in the Community program, with 10 people discharged in the past 24 hours.

However, in order to stay on top of things in the lead up to Christmas, visitor restrictions will be temporarily set up to keep staff and residents at NSW Health facilities safe.

"These decisions have not been made lightly, however we must always prioritise our vulnerable patients and staff who are arguably the most vital workers needed in a pandemic," a WNSWLHD spokesperson said.

"As such, health settings more than any other setting in the community necessitate added caution given the impact transmission events can have on our staff and patients."

Visitors to hospital patients will now be permitted only in some circumstances for essential patient needs and compassionate reasons, which may include supporting women in labour, providing care for children in hospital and for patients receiving palliative care.

Any visits will be considered based on a risk assessment and in response to individual patient needs and circumstances by WNSWLHD. Exemptions to restrictions based on compassionate grounds may be granted on a case-by-case basis.

Temporary restrictions have also been placed on visitors to residential aged-care facilities around the state.

No more than one visitor per visit will be permitted at these facilities and they must avoid communal gatherings while there. All residents receiving visitors must be vaccinated and no children under 12 will be permitted entry.

In order to enter any of these facilities, visitors must be fully-vaccinated and carry proof of their vaccination - or a medical exemption, if visiting a healthcare facility.

They must also correctly wear a mask on entry and throughout the duration of the visit, and follow any and all guidance from healthcare staff.

The WNSWLHD spokesperson said anyone with concerns around visiting a facility is asked to contact their relevant facility for more information.

"In all circumstances, we encourage patience when corresponding with our staff. We will continue to monitor the evolving situation and update advice for visitors accordingly," they said.

For more information about COVID-19 in NSW, check out our in-app COVID-19 button.