NSW Health figures show that the Wagga local government area has recored 279 cases in the last four weeks, up from the 248 which were reported yesterday.

As of 8pm on New Year's Eve, 22,577 people in NSW were diagnosed with the virus while testing rates fell to 119,278 conducted within 24 hours following the government's amendment to PCR testing guidelines.

Four deaths were recorded overnight while hospitalisation rates continue to rise with 901 COVID-19 patients admitted, 79 of whom require intensive care and 26 of those requiring ventilation.

IN OTHER NEWS:

According to the minister for health Brad Hazzard during a press conference yesterday afternoon, the majority of those within ICU have not been vaccinated.

Rapid antigen testing (RAT) requirements have been relaxed for those no longer experiencing COVID-19 symptoms after seven days of testing positive.

Confirmed cases will no longer require a negative RAT result on the sixth day of isolation and can leave on the seventh if they are asymptomatic.

Healthcare workers in NSW who have been deemed close contacts will in some circumstances be permitted to leave self-isolation and return to work within the seven isolation period in a move NSW Health says will aid in minimising the strain on healthcare services.

Vaccine rates remain unchanged since yesterday with 93.6 per cent of people aged 16 and over and 78.2 per cent of people aged between 12 and 15 having received two doses of a COVID vaccine.

Vaccinations can be booked at more than 100 providers across the Riverina by using healthdirect.gov.au.

Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, sore throat, cough, headache, runny nose, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches or pains, and a change in taste or smell.

For further testing locations across the district go to www.mlhd.health.nsw.gov.au, or for help accessing a test, call the Murrumbidgee COVID-19 Hotline 1800 831 099.

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: