Portland District Health chief executive officer Chris Giles said there had been eight people who has tested positive for the virus in the shire in the past 12 days.

She said all were linked to the initial person who returned a positive result on July 15.

"They're all currently in self-isolation and contact tracing is under way for the last two cases," Ms Giles said.

She said it was not known whether other people in the shire had COVID-19.

"We need to assume there is always a risk when you're out and about ... I would encourage people to physical distance and if you can't wear a face covering or a face mask," Ms Giles said.

She urged people to practice good hygeine and avoid touching their face without washing their hands first.

"Most importantly stay at home if you're unwell," Ms Giles said.

She said even people with mild symptoms should get tested.

Ms Giles said a pop-up clinic was now operating at Heywood.

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