Victoria has recorded another huge spike in COVID-19 cases as the second outbreak continues to grow.
Premier Daniel Andrews this morning said there had been a further 270 cases confirmed in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number in the state to more than 1,800.
The state has recorded triple-digit increases for the last nine days. Of the new cases, 28 were connected to existing cases while 242 were being investigated.
The rapidly spreading virus prompted Mr Andrews to yesterday say there was no set end date for lockdowns in metro Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire, stating they would remain for as long as was needed.
“But it need not be there for a moment longer than absolutely necessary if everyone simply follows the rules and does the right thing,” he said.
It comes as Mr Andrews last week urged residents in both areas to wear face masks when they leave home, on the recommendation of the Chief Health Officer. The announcement followed new research showing that masks could reduce transmission of the virus by up to 60 per cent.
The Victorian government will provide more than two million reusable and one million single use masks to residents, however it is not mandatory to wear one and the advice relates only to those aged over 18.
“The Chief Health Officer has now given us the clear advice that wearing face masks makes a tangible difference when it comes to reducing the transmission of coronavirus within the community – and that is why we are issuing this new recommendation,” Mr Andrews said.
“Staying at home if you feel unwell is still the best way to slow the spread of coronavirus but wearing a cloth mask provides an additional physical barrier, adding one more layer of protection for you and those around you.”
Cases also continue to rise in Sydney. NSW recorded 13 new cases overnight, 1 related to the Crossroads Hotel cluster in south-west Sydney, while two cases were returned travellers in hotel quarantine.