Geelong recorded at least one new COVID-19 case yesterday amid the worst day for new infections by far in Victoria since the pandemic began.
The state recorded 1438 cases, surpassing the previous highest mark of 950 the day before by almost 500.
According to the Department of Health, greater Geelong recorded two new cases bringing local active cases to 22.
But later this afternoon Barwon Health stated greater Geelong recorded a single new case yesterday.
Barwon Health provided no explanation for the discrepancy, but health authorities could have reclassified one of the two cases.
The Surf Coast recorded no new cases with five currently active in the shire, while Colac Otway Shire recorded one new case, its only active case as of Wednesday, according to health data.
Barwon Health also reported a “small outbreak” in Warrnambool this afternoon.
“The Barwon South West Public Health Unit is tracing the cases and their close contacts, and will advise any exposure sites as they are identified,” Barwon Health public affairs director Kate Bibby said.
“Colac and Warrnambool have swiftly set up additional COVID-19 testing sites.”
COVID-19 commander Jeroen Weimar attributed about 500 of Victoria’s new cases yesterday to social gatherings during the grand final weekend.
Contract tracing had revealed “significant numbers” of social gatherings on Friday and Saturday, over the long weekend, including grand final parties, barbecues, backyard visits and other social gatherings, Mr Weimar said.
Wednesday’s increase brought total active cases in Victoria to 11,018.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews described many of the cases as “completely avoidable”.
“Actual interviews tell us that many hundreds of people, perhaps thousands of people, have made some choices that meant they’re spending time, not in their own home but in someone else’s home,” he said.
Barwon Health currently has 12 COVID-positive inpatients, seven of which are in intensive care. Eleven are from metropolitan Melbourne and one is from Colac.
The health provider’s Norlane hub is currently vaccinating about 1200 people a day, with state government today halving the wait time required between first and second doses.
“We welcome the news that the interval for the Pfizer second dose has changed from six to three weeks, allowing people in the community to be fully-vaccinated sooner,” Ms Bibby said.
“We are pleased to advise that additional Pfizer appointments have been made available this week at Ford.”
