Local cases continue as isolation rules change

New cases of COVID-19 continue to rise locally, and new changes have been made in terms of isolation for people working in specific sectors.

The latest statistics on COVIDLive released as of Monday, January 17 saw Yarrawonga’s daily total raise by nine cases with 256 still active. In Mulwala there were five new cases, while 159 cases remain active.

Since January 1 Yarrawonga and Mulwala have recorded a combined 729 positive cases, averaging almost 43 per day forcing many locals into isolation and businesses to reduce hours, even close temporarily.

National Cabinet met last week to discuss isolation exemptions after many sectors were left understaffed, causing a rippling effect with many businesses also short on stock.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said thousands more people will now be allowed to return to work if they are a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case, with national cabinet agreeing to expand which workers should be exempt from isolation rules.

High-risk close contacts, like those who are living with someone with COVID-19, must isolate and take a rapid test every second day until day six of their isolation period.

Those who are considered low risk do not have to have the regular tests but must monitor for symptoms.

The changes are designed to help ease the pressure on workforces and supply chains which have been under increased strain.

Changes will be made shortly, where they have not already been made under state and territory public health arrangements, to include:

• Health, welfare, care and support (including production and provision of medical, pharmaceutical and health supplies and pharmacy workers),

• Emergency services, safety, law enforcement, justice and correctional services,

• Energy, resources and water, and waste management,

• Food, beverage, and other critical goods (including farming, production, and provision but not including hospitality),

• Education and childcare; and

• Telecommunications, data, broadcasting and media.