Murrumbidgee Local Health District records five new COVID cases as state numbers surges past 1700

A breakdown of the case numbers by local government area is not available, as the health district recently switched from daily to weekly updates with a focus on vaccination and testing numbers.

On Wednesday, health authorities encouraged residents to continue wearing masks despite the eased restrictions, saying it was a small "impost".

Meanwhile, the state has recorded 1742 new COVID cases on Thursday, a rise of more than 380 on the day before.

There are a total of 122 cases of COVID-19 with the Omicron variant of concern confirmed in NSW.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"The emergence of the Omicron variant is a timely reminder of the importance of booster shots in maintaining a high level of protection against the COVID-19 virus," NSW Health said in a statement.

"We urge people to get their booster dose as soon as they are eligible, to best protect yourself, your loved ones and the community from the ongoing transmission of COVID-19."

However, there were no deaths recorded in the 24 hour period to 8pm Wednesday.

There are currently 192 people in hospital with the virus, including 26 requiring intensive care.

The second dose vaccination rate has inched higher again, hitting 93.3 per cent, while 94.8 per cent of the population aged 16 plus have had at least one dose of a vaccine.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: