SA records 2298 new COVID-19 cases as elective surgeries paused

South Australia has recorded 2298 COVID-19 cases overnight as the state moves to restrict elective surgery to prepare for more hospitalisations.

Premier Steven Marshall said there are currently 82 people being treated in South Australian hospitals for the virus, with seven in intensive care.

Mr Marshall said the current hospitalisation rate was still within capacity for South Australia's health system, but the government will suspend some elective surgeries to free up resources.

READ MORE: Infant who tested positive for COVID-19 dies in South Australia

READ MORE: The 'disappointing' act costing charities thousands of dollars

Yesterday more than 21,000 South Australians came forward to be tested for COVID-19, while far fewer vaccines were administered.

Mr Marshall said the state is closely watching hospitalisations linked to the virus, with a significant number of COVID-positive residents recovering at home.

"The vast majority of people who are Covid positive in South Australia are being looked after by our response team who are treating them in their own homes," Mr Marshall said.

He also said the current number of active cases in South Australian prison populations is now at 60.