Masks back on indoors

Rule for public settings, not in private homes

VICTORIANS aged eight and above will be required to wear masks in all public indoor settings as authorities try to curb the spread of the fast-moving Omicron Covid variant.

The news comes as 64 new cases of coronavirus were recorded across the Barwon South West region as of Thursday.

Barwon South West public health unit director Professor Eugene Athan said no new Covid-19 deaths were recorded at Geelong hospital on Wednesday night.

At 9am on Thursday, there were 18 patients in University Hospital Geelong with Covid-19, including six in intensive care. The average age of those patients was 51.

Victoria recorded 2005 new infections on Thursday, the first time the state has passed more than 2000 cases since October.

Ten more Victorians have died after contracting Covid.

From Friday, face masks will be required in all indoor settings, except for private homes, for people aged over eight, and for major events of more than 30,000.

“Victoria is in one of the strongest positions, really, of any place around the world to combat this new, fast-paced variant,” Deputy Premier James Merlino said.

“That said, we still need to be smart, we still need to protect ourselves and our loved ones from getting sick and ensure our healthcare workers are not being overwhelmed.”

The new rule will force people attending major events, including the Boxing Day Test, to wear masks.

Hospitality and retail will not be affected, no businesses will be closed, but the government has recommended hospitality venues stick to seated service and for dance floors to stay in outdoor, well-ventilated areas.

The government is also recommending people work from home where possible.

Mr Merlino denied a lockdown would be brought in.

“This is a sensible response, which will allow businesses to stay open, bars and restaurants to continue to stay open and major events to go ahead,” he said.

“Masks are a cheap and effective way to maintain the health of the community and it’s something public health experts have been calling for.” Health Minister Martin Foley said the government also recommended people didn’t take masks off in crowded bars and nightclubs, although the rule was not mandatory.

The mask rule also didn’t apply to private homes, even if there was a group of people, Mr Foley said.

All residents are being urged to get their booster Covid-19 vaccines as soon as they are eligible.

“I urge anyone who had their second dose of Covid-19 vaccine more than five months ago, that they are now due for their booster and to book in as soon as possible,” Prof Athan said.

“The community vaccination hub in Norlane is now offering booster doses.”

Due to strong demand, walk-in vaccinations at the hub have been paused, but appointments can be made by calling 1800 675 398 or online at portal.cvms.vic.gov.au

Over the Christmas holiday period, the hub will be closed from December 24-28 and January 1-3. Its normal operating hours are 8.30am-3.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

Booster vaccine doses are also being offered by a number of GPs and pharmacies across the region.