A 7-DAY snap lockdown will be put in force from 11.59pm tonight to stop the spread of what the State Government describes as a fast moving and contagious variant of coronavirus.
The Pfizer vaccine will also be available to Victorians aged between 40-49 years old and people in this age bracket should make an appointment on the Coronavirus hotline at 1800 675 398.
From midnight tonight stay at home unless: • shopping for necessary goods and services (one person per household, once per day, a support person can accompany if required) • caregiving or compassionate reasons • authorised work or permitted education, or work interstate • exercise (up to two hours, with one other person or members of your household) • receive a vaccination • other specified reasons (specific exemptions apply
In announcing the new measures on Thursday morning, Acting Premier James Merlino reported that there were 34 active cases in Victoria with 34,411 people tested on Wednesday.
Within 24 hours there had been 12 newly linked cases to the Whittlesea outbreak, with in excess of 10,000 primary and secondary contacts who are now self isolating.
There are also 150 exposure sites right around Victoria.
"Our primary concern is just how fast this variant is moving but not just how quick but how contagious it is," Mr Merlino said on Thursday morning.
"The time between catching and passing on the virus is tighter than ever. Serial intervals are averaging just over a day and the usual transmission period is 5-6 days.
He praised contact tracers in being able to establish first, second and third rings of cases within the past 24 hours.
Face coverings: • Must be carried at all times • Must be worn indoors and outdoors except if at home, or if an exemption applies
Work: If you can work from home, you must work from home • Authorised workplaces and workers defined below
Early learning centres, childcare, family day care: Open
Schools: Closed but open to vulnerable children and the children of essential workers
Higher education and training: Closed, remote learning only
Religious gatherings and ceremonies: No in-person gatherings permitted. Broadcast permitted
Funerals (indoor and outdoor): Permitted with no more than 10 people (and those necessary to conduct the funeral). Children under 12 months old are not counted towards this cap
Weddings (indoor and outdoor): Not permitted unless end of life or for deportation reasons. Involves only 5 persons (including the two persons being married, celebrant, two witnesses
Hospitality: Open for takeaway only