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A FUNERAL sparked COVID-19 concerns in Moree after the town recorded two cases on Tuesday, just days after attendees were exposed to the virus.
Hunter New England Health (HNEH) said the situation in Moree was "changing rapidly" on Tuesday and confirmed information would be provided as it comes to hand.
"Anyone who attended the funeral in Moree last Thursday or the gathering at Pius X afterwards is considered a casual contact and should arrange testing immediately if that has not already been done," a statement from HNEH said.
"Attendees should also arrange to have a second test on Wednesday or Thursday this week but do not need to isolate if they remain well."
Close contacts will be directly contacted.
HNEH urged anyone with even mild symptoms to seek a swab at the hospital, Gateway clinic, Pius X centres in Moree and Mungindi and Boggabilla's community health centre.
The latest data shows Moree has a double dose vaccination rate of 76.4 per cent and jabs can be booked online.
HNEH reported one new Moree case in the official numbers but mayor Katrina Humphries said it was with "great sadness" she confirmed two new local cases on Tuesday.
She urged NSW Health to act quickly and keep the community updated.
EARLIER:
Moree has recorded two positive COVID-19 cases in the community this morning (November 2).
Local MP Adam Marshall reported that the two individuals are linked due to their attendance at the same venue/event late last week.
"They are in isolation and their close contacts have been advised and are also isolating," Mr Marshall said.
At this stage no exposure sites have been published.
Mayor Katrina Humphries requested everyone "steps-up" and gets tested and stays at home if they have any symptoms.
"Don't think it can't happen to you, because it can.
"Hopefully all the people we've got vaccinated will remain safe but we've got to ride this out," she said.
"It's a difficult time.
"It's incredibly disappointing that Covid has arrived in Moree but in light of free movement now, it was always going to happen.
"NSW Health need to be contract tracing this very quickly and we are relying on all resources thrown at these cases as quick as possible so we can keep our community as safe as possible."
Mr Marshall said in response to the positive cases, testing hours have been increased at Moree hospital for anyone with even the most mild of symptoms.
The drive-through Gateway testing clinic (near Puma) is also open.
Mr Marshall stated he would post another update this afternoon.
"In the meantime, stay safe and take care," he said.
These are the first active cases in Moree since the pandemic started.
