Three residents at Piccadilly Motor Inn in Wollongong have tested positive to COVID-19, sending those staying at the accommodation into lockdown.
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Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District chief executive Margot Mains said the occupants of the Crown Street premises were required to self-isolate within their own rooms to minimise transmission between residents of different apartments and into the wider community.
She said some residents were known to frequent an apartment block at 75-79 Keira Street which was sent into lockdown on Friday. The block of 83 apartments includes accommodation for homeless people and will be in lockdown until October 1.
Read more: Wollongong COVID cases double in eight days
"The multi-agency response that commenced (on Friday) at an apartment building on Keira Street in Wollongong has now been extended to include an accommodation facility within a building on Crown Street, Wollongong," Ms Mains said.
Residents of the Piccadilly Motor Inn who are deemed close contacts must isolate for 14 days, but unlike the Keira Street building, it is not subject to a health lockdown order.
"The facility is home to community of residents who move between apartments and use communal areas," Ms Mains said.
"Some residents are also known to visit the Keira Street apartment complex, which is currently subject to restrictions limiting access."
Eleven residents of the Keira Street building have now tested positive for COVID.
"Health clinicians and other support services will continue to be on site at both facilities during the isolation period. On-site COVID-19 testing will also be available to all residents," Ms Mains said.
"All residents will be closely monitored and appropriate care is being provided, including telehealth consultations, in-home medical care and transport to hospital for those needing higher levels of care.
"Residents will also be supported to continue receiving ongoing care for pre-existing chronic health conditions and support services.
"Social support, including food supplies, personal hygiene and other essential items as well as counselling for residents is also provided by NSW Government and non-government agencies to ensure the health and well-being of residents."
As of Sunday afternoon, the multi-agency response had not extended to any other sites in Wollongong or the wider Illawarra region.
Anyone who was at Piccadilly Motor Inn (341-349 Crown St, Wollongong) any time after Tuesday, September 14, is considered a close contact. They should get tested immediately and self-isolate until September 28.
Meantime, anyone who visited Dapto Convenience Store at 309 Princes Highway between 12.05pm and 12.20pm on Friday, September 3, should get tested immediately and self-isolate until you get a negative result.
Also, anyone who visited Coles Fairy Meadow between 4.30pm and 5pm as well as 3:30pm to 4pm on Friday, September 10, should get tested immediately and self-isolate until you get a negative result.
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Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
