NSW records 818 cases and three deaths as new restrictions come into force

New South Wales has recorded 818 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours and three deaths.

Of the new infections, 120 infections are linked to a known case. The source of 698 infections is under investigation.

The number of COVID-19 patients in hospital is 568 with 100 people in intensive case and 32 on ventilators.

Of the three deaths, all were reported among patients in their 80s and all had underlying health conditions.

Most of the new cases were in the local government areas under the toughest restrictions with 350 cases recorded in western Sydney, 237 in south-western Sydney and 24 cases in western New South Wales.

Since the current outbreak began in June, the number of cases recorded has reached 13,022 cases.

A raft of new public health rules began today at 12.01am.

The harsher measures include a 9pm to 5am curfew for those who live in a dozen Sydney local government areas of concern, and statewide mandatory mask-wearing when outdoors, except if exercising.

Hardware stores like Bunnings, office supply stores and other retail premises must close in hotspot LGAs except for click-and-collect purchases, and all exams and education activities will move online, except the HSC.

Source: sbs.com.au