Covid on the rise again

By Brendan Rees

Just as restrictions begin to ease across the state, Casey City’s coronavirus active cases has taken a sudden jump, according to the state’s latest health data.

As of 1 June figures, 10 active cases in Casey have been confirmed – with eight new cases confirmed since 22 May.

Casey’s tally now stands at 68.

Casey’s active cases makes it equal second highest across the state, behind Melbourne.

In other local government areas in the southeast, Greater Dandenong had two active cases, while Frankston and Cardinia had zero new active cases.

Six Covid-19 patients remain in hospital including one in intensive care. Nineteen Victorians have died of the virus.

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton assured the state “we have made some great progress in slowing the spread of coronavirus” due to people staying at home.

He said the low rate of community transmission meant being able to ease restrictions from Monday 1 June.

“You can have up to 20 people in your home or in a public place. Restaurants, cafes and pubs can have up to 20 customers dine in, and businesses such as beauty therapists can see clients again,” Professor Sutton said.

“Although it’s tempting to rush out and book that weekend away or have your friends over, it is important that we use our common sense. In all your activities, be considered, be cautious and stay safe. And if you don’t have to do it – don’t.”

State-wide, there have been 1653 cases – an increase of four in the 24 hours to 1 June.

Of them, 1560 people have recovered. Confirmed community transmissions stand at 168.

One new case has been linked to the outbreak at quarantine hotel Rydges on Swanston in Melbourne, with a case in a close contact of a worker bringing the current total of this outbreak to eight.

Another a new case was detected in returned travellers in hotel quarantine and two were from community testing. There are no new cases linked to any other known outbreaks, including the Keilor Downs family and any aged care facilities.