Media Release

Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet

COVID-19 Update: Wastewater detection

29 September 2021

Viral fragments have been detected in wastewater samples taken from the Berrimah Treatment Plant for the collection period 24 – 28 September as part of the NT surveillance program.

The detection of viral fragments in wastewater can come from someone who has recovered from COVID-19 and, while no longer infectious, can shed fragments of the virus.

Further testing of wastewater across Darwin and in the Berrimah catchment will be undertaken to monitor the situation.

The Berrimah catchment includes the Winnellie and East Arm industrial areas and port, utilised by freight and transport workers, some of whom travel from interstate.

The Chief Health Officer (CHO) is reminding all people who work in freight and transport to follow industry testing regimes which require weekly testing for COVID-19, regardless of whether a person has any symptoms.

It is important all Territorians and visitors get tested for COVID-19 if showing any symptoms such as a cough, fever, shortness of breath, muscle aches, change in taste or smell and a sore throat.

The Berrimah Treatment Plant catchment area includes the following suburbs:

BerrimahEast ArmNorthcrest

To arrange a COVID test please book online [https://covid19appointment.nt.gov.au/test] or contact the COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 490 484 [tel:1800490484]

Strict border controls are in place for all people travelling to the NT from a declared hotspot or public exposure site. The border controls prohibit entry into the NT except for returning residents, or those who have obtained prior approval to enter.

Quotes attributable to Chief Health Officer Dr Hugh Heggie:

“We are aware that in other areas in Australia, freight and transport workers who are required to travel long distances have tested positive to COVID-19.

“It is important that if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 you get tested – especially if you live in Darwin or visited between 24 and 28 September.

“The continued community transmission of COVID-19 in Australia reminds us of the critical need to be double vaccinated. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming very unwell or dying from COVID-19, is to get vaccinated.”

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