Covid cases explode as NSW includes rapid test results
NSW has recorded more than 90,000 new Covid-19 cases, a spike driven by the state's new reporting system for positive rapid tests.
On Thursday, NSW announced 92,264 new cases, of which 30,877 were identified through PCR, and 61,387 through rapid antigen tests.
NSW Health noted the rapid antigen test results date back to January 1, and 50,729 of the positive tests are from the last seven days.
Some of the new cases may reflect people who reported a positive RAT on multiple days, or people who had a positive PCR test and RAT.
There were also 22 Covid-related deaths reported on Thursday, which marks the fourth time this week the state has set a new daily record for Covid-related deaths.
On Wednesday, there were 21 Covid deaths reported in the state, however, seven were historical.
There are now 2,383 people in hospital, up from 2,242 people on Wednesday. As of Thursday, there are 182 patients in the ICU.
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People who test positive for Covid on a rapid test are now able to log their results through Service NSW and anyone who has tested positive since January 1 is able to do so.
Starting January 19, the government will fine people $1000 if they fail to report their positive RAT result through the system, though Customer Service and Digital Minister Victor Dominello admitted enforcing this was going to be "impossible in many ways".
Victoria records 25 deaths
On Thursday, Victoria recorded 37,169 new Covid-19 cases, 16,843 confirmed with rapid tests, 20,326 confirmed through PCR tests.
The state also announced 25 Covid-related deaths.
There are 953 people in hospital with Covid-19 in Victoria, 111 of those patients in the ICU and 29 people on a ventilator.
As of Thursday, hospitality and entertainment venues had to close indoor dance floors, though dance floors at weddings are still allowed.
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