Ten of the new cases are from the Kempsey local government area (LGA) and two are from the Coffs Harbour LGA.

Three of the cases are linked to a known case or cluster and the source of the infection of nine cases is under investigation.

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Melville High School became the third school in Kempsey this week to shutdown because members of the school community tested positive to COVID-19. Kempsey West Public School and Kempsey Adventist School were also closed for deep cleaning.

There have been 85 cases reported in the MNCLHD since the beginning of the current NSW outbreak.

The North Coast Public Health Unit is currently investigating the latest cases and contact tracing is underway, including any potential exposure venues of public concern.

COVID-19 exposure sites are listed on the NSW government at www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/stay-safe/case-locations/exposure-sites. Type in your location or postcode for the latest venues of concern.

MNCLHD chief executive Stewart Dowrick said while the region's vaccination rate is exceptional it is vitally important people continue to come out in large numbers to get tested.

"The Mid North Coast's vaccination rates continue to climb with almost 95 per cent of the region's residents having received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. I'd like to extend my appreciation to those that have been vaccinated and encourage others to do so," Mr Dowrick said.

"High COVID-19 testing rates have also been experienced across the region with 1,025 tests conducted yesterday, 569 of which were at Kempsey.

"I'd like to thank our wonderful staff at our testing clinics for all their tireless efforts and the community for coming forward for testing and helping us to keep each other safe."

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been unwell or if develops any symptoms such as a fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, loss of smell/taste, muscle/joint pains, diarrhoea, nausea/vomiting or extreme tiredness to be tested at one of the COVID-19 testing clinics.

The COVID-19 testing clinics in the Kempsey Local Government Area are open.

Kempsey District Hospital - River St entrance - 9am to 4pm, Tuesday to Friday (Pfizer)

No appointment is necessary, just bring your Medicare card and photo ID. Please remember to wear your mask and observe physical distancing at all times.

Another Super Saturday on October 23 will be held at the Dunghutti Elders 17-23 South St, South Kempsey from 9:30am to 4pm. Pfizer available (12 years and over) and walk-ins accepted.

Bring your Medicare card and Photo ID. Wear a mask.

All Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community members welcome.

Bus transport available. Please contact 6560 2311 to book transport.

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