Victoria records no new coronavirus infections, as restrictions ease across the state

The state recorded zero new COVID-19 infections in the last 24 hours, after two cases were reported on Friday.

People are seen commuting around Melbourne city centre on 15 February, 2021.

People are seen commuting around Melbourne city centre on 15 February, 2021. Source: AAP

Victoria has recorded zero new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, as mask wearing rules and gathering limits ease across the state. 

The two infections were both primary close contacts of pre-existing cases who tested positive towards the end of their 14-day mandatory quarantine. They had already been isolating at home during their infectious period, meaning they posed no further risk to the community.
The zero new cases came from over 10,000 tests, and there are now 15 active cases in the state. 

It comes as Victoria's restrictions on mask wearing and gathering limits were eased at midnight on Friday. 

Victorians are now only required to wear masks at high-risk indoor settings, such as public transport, taxis and ride-shares and in supermarkets. 

Up to 30 people will now be permitted to visit a private residence per day, up from five, and up to 100 people can attend an outdoor gathering.
The number of public and private sector office workers allowed back in the office has been raised to 75 per cent and restrictions on visiting hospitals and aged care facilities also will ease. 

Victoria was plunged into a hard stage 4, five-day lockdown earlier this month after an outbreak linked to the Holiday Inn quarantine hotel. The outbreak was linked to the highly transmissable UK variant of the virus. 

Premier Daniel Andrews said the "circuit breaker" lockdown was required to halt the potential start of a third wave in Victoria. 

The 14-day isolation period for thousands of people who were deemed close contacts of confirmed cases linked to the Holiday Inn outbreak ended on Friday.

People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your jurisdiction's restrictions on gathering limits.

If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, stay home and arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
 
News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus
 
Please check the relevant guidelines for your state or territory: NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Northern Territory, ACT, Tasmania
 
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By Jarni Blakkarly


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Victoria records no new coronavirus infections, as restrictions ease across the state | SBS News