The new Covid variant Omicron has been detected in Australia.
Photo: 123rf
New South Wales Health said tonight that two passengers who arrived into Sydney from South Africa last night have tested positive for the strain.
The two positive cases are in isolation in the Special Health Accommodation.
Both people, who are fully vaccinated, arrived in Sydney from southern Africa on Saturday, November 27.
They are among 14 people who arrived on Qatar Airways QR908, Doha to Sydney, about 7pm.
The remaining 12 passengers from southern Africa are undertaking 14 days of hotel quarantine, also in the Special Health Accommodation.
About 260 passengers and air crew on the flight are considered close contacts and have been directed to isolate.
The new variant was first reported to the WHO from South Africa on 24 November, and has also been identified in Botswana, Belgium, Hong Kong and Israel.
NSW Health confirmed 14 passengers who arrived in Sydney yesterday were from the southern African countries affected by the new border rules.
The passengers were transported to Special Health Accommodation where they will undergo 14 days of quarantine.
NSW Health said other passengers on the flight may be considered close contacts and would be contacted to get tested immediately, as well as isolate for two weeks.
It is less than a month since NSW completely removed all quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated international arrivals.
- ABC
