A van driver who drives airline crew to and from Sydney Airport has become the first case of COVID-19 contracted via community transmission in NSW since December 3.
NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard announced the "unfortunate" development at a press conference in Sydney on Wednesday morning, saying the positive test was identified after the man was tested on Tuesday.
Mr Hazzard said the driver, a 45-year-old man, began showing symptoms on Saturday.
He said the case has prompted the NSW government to seek talks with international airlines "within 48 hours", and the government's "inclination at this time" is to look into making changes to the quarantine requirements for air crew.
"International air crews coming into NSW will most likely be required to quarantine in the same way as any other international visitors or returnees," Mr Hazzard said.
However, he said it was unlikely crew would be required to quarantine for the full 14 days.
NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said the usual contact tracing is occurring, with the man's household contacts already tested and awaiting results. Genome sequencing of the strain is also being expedited.
Dr Chant said the driver's "sole responsibility" was transporting air crew and that he reported wearing a mask.
More to come.
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