Extra staff have been deployed to Tomaree Hospital to increase COVID-19 testing capability after a man in his 60's was confirmed to have contracted the virus.
He's now in isolation.
Hunter New England Health says the source of the infection was a visitor from Sydney.
The Sydney case visited the Windsor Castle Hotel at East Maitand between 6.00pm and 8.00pm on Monday July 13 and the Salamander Bay Shopping Centre last Wednesday July 15.
It's prompted a warning for anyone who visited these locations at those times to get tested immediately if they develop COVID-19 symptoms.
Public Health Physician, Dr David Durrheim says anyone in the Port Stephens area with cold or flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough or shortness of breath is urged to get tested.
"Even those with mild symptoms such as fever, new muscle aches or pains, a change in taste or smell or a runny nose are encouraged to arrange testing," he said.
COVID-19 testing is also available at Maitland walk-in clinic, between 9.00am and 4.00pm, 7 days a week.
Meanwhile, the confirmed case has forced the temporary closure of the Nelson Bay Fire Station because a local firefighter believes he may have come in contact with the confirmed local case or the carrier from Sydney.
A rescue pumper and crew from Lambton is staying at a local hotel to provide cover for the community.
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| The infected person from Sydney visited the Salamander Bay Shopping Centre last Wednesday July 15 Picture: portstephensexaminer.com.au |
