The first “Omicron” incident in the Northern Territory confirmed

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Northern Territory Health Minister Natasha Files has identified the first case of a new “Omicron” COVID-19 variant in the territory.

An Australian man who flew from Johannesburg to Darwin on his return flight tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. Since then, genomic sequencing has revealed that he is infected with the “Omicron” mutant, making it the first case of this mutant in this region.

“But the territory community needs to reassure the gentleman that he went straight to Howard Springs, the national resilience center,” Files said. Press conference on Monday. “He is isolated there. He is properly cared for.”

She also explained that Howard Springs facilities are divided into different zones, so international repatriation does not interact with members of the local community who may be there as close contacts. ..

Deputy Chief Health Officer Charles Payne said he was “not overly concerned” about the first “Omicron” incident, adding that the territory had treated the mutants throughout the pandemic and managed them in the same way.

“In many ways, it’s a business as usual,” he said. “There is a very functional quarantine facility there.”

This is the third case of the “Omicron” variant detected so far in Australia, the other two occurring in New South Wales.

Northern Territory Government Promises $ 10 Million for Police, Fire and Emergency Services

Meanwhile, the Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services (NTPFES) will receive $ 10 million (US $ 7.1 million) from the Northern Territory Government to continue working in response to COVID-19.

so Media release On Saturday, Police, Fire and Emergency Services Minister Nicole Manison said the one-time payment would allow continued service and dedication from NTPEFS members corresponding to COVID-19 in the territory.

“Our police, fire and ambulance crews have been active at the forefront of the pandemic, again seeing their dedication in Catherine and the surrounding communities affected by the current outbreak. You can, “she said.

The payment was $ 20 million (US $ 14.2 million) made in 2020 to recruit additional police, support staff, and resources to protect the NT border and support the operation of COVID-19. It is done as an extension of the investment.

With its funding, 66 additional frontline police officers, 30 Aboriginal contacts to ensure a stronger relationship between police and indigenous communities to support the tasks brought about by COVID-19. Officials, 10 Aboriginal community police officers, and 25 support staff involved in administration and university were hired. And welfare support.

“They played an important role in keeping the community safe from COVID-19, so we invested an additional $ 10 million to put the boots on the ground and respond as needed. “We do,” said Manison.

The new funding will support these roles and support the continued operation of emergency operations centers, border crossings, and other activities that support COVID-19 compliance.

It is also possible to appoint a dedicated assistant commissioner to lead the distribution of the COVID-19 Safe Freedom Roadmap.

The Northern Territory Police Association welcomed the announcement of a $ 10 million increase, saying police were nervous about working in a pandemic and had continued demands for funding.

“We welcome additional funding and would like to thank all the members who have spent a lot of time trying the situation and working very hard to keep the community safe,” said Paul, President of the Association.・ McCue said.

Staffed on COVID-19 missions at Catherine, Robinson River, Binjari, and Rockhall. He said the police roster across the territory had been stretched.

“This money will help us work with an additional 28 police police officers who graduated from police college last night,” he said.

Steve Milne

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