Mr Ward said he has no insight as to where the new cases are.

Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) said the eight cases are each residents of the Shoalhaven Local Government Area, with seven linked to other known cases and for whom investigations are ongoing

"I urge everyone to stay calm," he said.

"The Shoalhaven has done incredibly well and should be proud of its efforts to date.

"While these eight cases are cause for concern we need to replicate the incredible effort we've done so far to sweep COVID out of the Shoalhaven."

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The news came after the Shoalhaven recorded two cases on Friday and a further two cases on Saturday.

Shoalhaven Mayor Amanda Findley said the eight new Shoalhaven cases should serve as a reminder to the community as to how quickly the Delta-variant can spread, and she stressed that residents with even the mildest of onset symptoms should get tested immediately.

Mr Ward said it was important to remember the first rule "stay at home."

"If you're walking outside your front door you must have a reasonable excuse to do so," he said.

"When interacting with somebody from outside of your household, treat every person as if they have COVID.

"That's the best way to approach your safety, that of your family and friends and the broader community.

"Our region has done incredibly well with vaccinations, our rates are some of the best in the state and we need to keep this going.

"It is important we continue to get people vaccinated.

"I've had my first jab and will get my second next week but also remember after your second jab your rate of immunity will take a few weeks to be complete.

"From next week, people who have received both jabs will be able to mix in public spaces of up to five, so make sure that you download your vaccination certificate using the Medicare app or via the myGov website."

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