Omicron COVID-19 Cases Dominate in Australia

Omicron is s emerging as the dominant variant of Covid-19 as the new year begins. Infection figures remain high across most states and territories as communities adjust to the new rules for close contacts.

South Australia's Premier Steven Marshall. Source: AAP

It's been several days since the federal government new protocols for Covid-19 testing took effect following a national cabinet meeting.

Close contacts are defined in terms of four hours spent in a household and rapid antigen testing is preferred for anyone who does not have symptoms or does not meet the new contact definition.