THERE are 31 active cases of COVID-19 in the City of Whittlesea, two of which are linked to a Mernda childcare centre, 17 to a Wollert outbreak and one new case at Pacific Meats in Thomastown.
This takes the total number for Whittlesea to 84 since the pandemic started.
Maples Early Learning Centre in Mernda reported the cases last week, and sent an email to families informing them of the procedures to follow.
A spokesperson said the centre had been in ‘regular contact with families and employees’ to keep them updated.
“We are working with DHHS and for us the safety of our community is paramount. We are doing everything we can to comply with the department,” the spokesperson said.
Two new health worker cases have been linked to the Northern Hospital Epping outbreak, taking the total to five.
Victoria’s total number of COVID-19 cases has reached 2660, with 127 new cases reported yesterday; the state’s total has increased by 124 with three cases reclassified.
The border between Victoria and New South Wales will close tonight from 11.59pm after the increase in numbers.
There have been two deaths reported since yesterday, a man in his 90s and a man in his 60s, bringing the total number of deaths to 22 in Victoria.
Of the number of cases in Victoria, 2307 were confirmed in metropolitan Melbourne, and 260 in regional Victoria.
Postcodes including 3031, 3051, 3012, 3021, 3032, 3038, 3042, 3046, 3047, 3055, 3060 and 3064 must follow the stay at home orders until July 29.
There are only four reasons for people in these post codes to leave their homes, including shopping for food and supplies, care and caregiving, exercise and compulsory study or work.
Victoria’s chief health officer Brett Sutton said Victorians in the locked down suburbs were being urged to do their part in fighting the spread.\
“This virus is not selective, it will impact anyone it encounters, and personal contact is the clear source of its transmission. More than 300,000 people live across these suburbs. We need everyone to do their part and ensure it is stopped in its tracks,” he said.
“There is no excuse for not getting tested. We have people knocking on your door, coming to your neighbourhood – we are bringing the testing to you. There are also several drive-through and fixed sites where people can go.
“Don’t take this disease lightly. If you feel unwell with any symptoms of coronavirus, however mild, you should stay home and get tested. Stick to the rules and get to a testing station.”
