Recently posted on the landing page of the Australian Government Website, we have the latest measures ordered by the government in hopes of slowing the spread of COVID-19.
The seasonality of COVID-19 is still largely unknown, but some diminution of the threat during the summer months is considered a possibility.
A reminder to those of us in the Northern Hemisphere that if we get lucky enough to see a drop in cases as warm weather approaches, we could easily see a second wave later in the year.
Australia, which has reported just over 1,070 cases and 7 deaths - is just now entering into their fall season - and whatever protective effects warmer weather might have afforded them should begin to diminish in the weeks ahead.The latest measures (and links to more details) are listed below.
Essential information
Updated: 10:50 pm AEDT on Sunday, 22 March 2020
- Pubs, licensed clubs and hotels (excluding accommodation), places of worship, gyms, indoor sporting venues, cinemas, casinos to close from midday Monday, March 22. Restaurants and cafes to offer takeaway only. Schools and supermarkets can remain open. Read more.
- To help stop the spread of coronavirus, stay 1.5 metres away from others where possible, wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, avoid touching your face and if sick, stay home. Read more.
- Non-essential mass gatherings are banned for groups of more than 500 people outdoors, or more than 100 indoors. Read more.
- There are restrictions on visitors to Residential Aged Care Facilities to protect older Australians. Please check with individual facilities for further information.
- From 9pm AEDT 20 March 2020, our borders are closed except for Australian citizens, residents and immediate family members. All arrivals into Australia are required to self-isolate for 14 days, either at home or in a hotel. Read more.
- A second set of economic responses has been announced, bringing the total package to $189 billion to support workers, businesses and broader community in response to the Coronavirus. Read more.
The seasonality of COVID-19 is still largely unknown, but some diminution of the threat during the summer months is considered a possibility.
A reminder to those of us in the Northern Hemisphere that if we get lucky enough to see a drop in cases as warm weather approaches, we could easily see a second wave later in the year.
