Friday, April 19, 2024

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No new coronavirus cases in Victoria

THERE have been no new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Victoria, but this is "not a time to relax our strong approach", says Victoria's Chief Health Officer.

The total number of cases in the state is 1,336 – no net increase from Tuesday - and there were also no new deaths reported.

While two new cases were added yesterday, two existing cases were reclassified to another state as per national protocols – meaning the overall number of cases has not changed.

Mildura has not had a new case in well over a week, with its total number remaining on five.

Of the total 1,336 cases, there have been 1,057 in metropolitan Melbourne and 242 in regional Victoria. Several cases remain under investigation.

Victoria's Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton said the recent daily fluctuations in the number of positive COVID-19 cases in Victoria was due to an increase in the number of tests being completed and an increase in the number of travellers returning from overseas on repatriation flights.

"The increases we are seeing are small and this is encouraging," Prof Sutton said.

"They prove that our physical distancing measures are working but this is not a time to relax our strong approach – this disease can get away from you very quickly as we have seen in cities overseas.

"We thank Victorians who overwhelmingly are doing the right thing by staying at home, but we must keep at it to save lives.

"Everyone who's unwell must isolate themselves and everyone who's been told they're in quarantine either as a returned traveller or close contact must do so as well.

"Physical distancing will save lives. Everyone needs to comply with restrictions in place to keep yourself, your loved ones and the whole community safe. Our message is clear: if you can stay home, you must stay home."

There are only four reasons for Victorians to leave their home: food and supplies, medical care and care giving, exercise, and work or education.

Police have strong powers to enforce these directions and can issue on the spot fines, including up to $1,652 for individuals and up to $9,913 for businesses.

Under the State of Emergency people who don't comply could also be taken to court and receive a fine of up to $20,000. Companies face fines of up to $100,000.