There were no new cases added to Adelaide’s Parafield cluster on Thursday, an encouraging result that marked the state’s first day of hard lockdown.
This meant there were 35 active cases state-wide, including those in hotel quarantine, with 22 linked to the cluster in Adelaide’s north to date.
A further 17 people are suspected to be carrying the virus, but not confirmed.
These results come from more than 20,000 tests conducted in 48 hours, a state record.
Premier Steven Marshall (pictured above) praised those who came forward and got tested.
“The lessons of surging infections in Victoria and other parts of the world have been learnt,” Mr Marshall said.
“Indecision plays into the hands of this virus. COVID-19 is highly infectious, extremely dangerous and very difficult to eradicate once it gets a foothold in a community.”
“So, we need this circuit-breaker, this breathing space for a contact tracing blitz.”
The state’s Chief Public Health Officer, Nicola Spurrier, said the figures are “good news” but didn’t necessarily tell the full story noting that there are now potentially thousands of South Australians who could be close contacts of positive or suspected cases.
Ms Spurrier added she didn’t expect a long-term shutdown.
“Be patient, be kind, stay at home, you are absolutely doing the right thing,” she said.
“When you do have to go out… please try and wear a mask and stay safe.”
20 days with no new infections or deaths in Victoria
Meanwhile, Victoria has chalked up its 20th day with no new infections.
This comes from over 17,161 tests received in the 24 hours prior.
There are still just three active cases state-wide.
