By Luke Voogt
Geelong has recorded no new coronavirus cases in 24 hours for the first time in more than a week, according to the latest data.
COVID-19 cases in Geelong remained at 37 today, the same as yesterday, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
Today was the first time since the department began releasing local government area data last Monday that Geelong had recorded no daily increase.
Last Thursday the number of confirmed Geelong cases nearly doubled in one day from 11 to 21.
The total Geelong cases then increased to 23 on Friday, 33 on Saturday and 37 on Sunday, according to the department.
On the Surf Coast today coronavirus cases rose to six, up from five yesterday.
Across Victoria coronavirus cases rose by 56 today, bringing the state total to 821, according to the department.
Four men, three in their 70s and one in his 80s, died last week in Melbourne hospitals after contracting coronavirus.
“Many more are in hospital or self-isolating at home,” the department said in a statement today.
“The total number of cases includes 447 men and 370 women, with people aged from three to 88.”
“There are 26 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Victoria that may have been acquired through community transmission. More than 42,000 Victorians have been tested to date.”
“Currently 29 people are in hospital, including four patients in intensive care [and] 248 people have recovered.”
Of the 821 cases, 653 occurred in metropolitan Melbourne and 146 in regional Victoria, with some other cases still under investigation.
The National Cabinet has agreed on new restrictions, to take affect at midnight tonight, banning gatherings of more than two people, except for members of immediate households or for work or education purposes.
“Most Victorians are doing the right thing and I’m grateful to them,” Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said today.
“But we continue to see instances of people gathering in significant numbers so we must do more.
“We will not be breaking up household family dinners – but BBQs with the neighbours cannot happen anymore. Playgrounds, skate parks and outdoor gyms will also close.”
Police can issue on-the-spot fines, including up to $1652 for individuals and up to $9913 for businesses who fail to comply with social distancing restrictions.
Under the State of Emergency people who fail to comply could also face a fine of up to $20,000 in court while companies could face fines of up to $100,000.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton warned everyone to take social distancing seriously.
“Everyone who’s unwell must isolate themselves and everyone who’s been told they’re in quarantine either as a returned traveller or close contact must do so,” Professor Sutton said.
“Everyone needs to comply with restrictions in place to keep yourself, your loved ones and the whole community safe.
“Our message is clear: if you can stay home, you must stay home.”
