Strict COVID-19 restrictions have been re-introduced across Greater Sydney after an eastern suburban couple in their 50s tested positive for the deadly virus.
The restrictions will be in place for at least three days. The state is on high alert and contact tracing continues, according to ABC News Australia.
The state officials said, “Although ‘disease detectives’ know the man contracted the virus from a returning traveler at the Park Royal at Darling Harbour, there was no direct contact between that man and the traveler so there is still a missing link.”
The restrictions have been enforced from 5.00 pm today but Gladys Berejiklian, Premier of New South Wales, has urged people to follow the new rules as soon as they hear about them.
The measures are in effect for the Greater Sydney region, including Wollongong, the Central Coast, and the Blue Mountains, according to the news outlet.
Masks have been made compulsory on public transport. Household visitors have been cut to a maximum of 20 guests, including children.
Masks are also made compulsory in all indoor public venues, such as retail outlets, theatres, and hospitals. In aged care facilities, only two visitors are allowed.
People are allowed to remove masks when eating or drinking at a hospitality venue, but they can no longer stand and drink in an indoor venue.
The officials have banned dancing at indoor venues and singing by audiences at indoor shows.
However, Berejiklian, the Leader of the New South Wales Liberal Party, said she still wants people to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, adding there is no need to cancel plans to go out.
She said, “We’ve been very careful not to impact unnecessarily businesses and others who might have already made arrangements over the weekend, but we do ask citizens and workers to be extra cautious and adopt that compulsory mask-wearing.”
Berejiklian also urged people to follow all hygiene protocols.
She said, “We also want to make sure people are just sensible. Make sure you maintain your good social distancing, make sure you avoid large events if you’re vulnerable, and make sure you exhibit good hygiene.” The article was published on ABC News Australia.
