The Merimbula sewage treatment plant serves about 15,000 people on the NSW Far South Coast.

These positive sewage results may indicate the presence of people who have recently recovered from COVID-19, as they can continue to shed fragments of the virus for several weeks after recovery.

However, NSW Health is concerned that they could signal undetected cases in the community, and asks people in these areas to be alert for any cold-like symptoms that could signal COVID19, including sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever or headache.

If symptoms appear, please isolate and get tested immediately, and remain isolated until a negative result is received.

South East Regional Hospital will open its COVID-19 drive through testing clinic on Sunday (Anzac Day) 9am-1pm.

A full list of COVID-19 testing clinic sites and hours is available here

"This doesn't mean we have any active cases in the shire, but we need to stay alert," Bega Valley Shire Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said.

"If you're feeling unwell, even with mild symptoms, please get tested and self-isolate until you receive a negative result.

"And of course, practising good hand hygiene and using QR codes to check in at venues are also important to help keep our community safe."

For the latest COVID-19 updates and advice, go to www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19

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