With 12 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Moira Shire and Federation Council in less than a week, authorities and community leaders are pleading with people to stay at home.
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Federation Council Mayor Pat Bourke said his heartfelt plea comes after health officials confirmed there were currently six cases of COVID-19 in the Federation Council Local Government Area (LGA) on Monday which was on par with the Albury LGA.
“I am deeply concerned that as of Sunday morning the Federation LGA’s confirmed cases were on par with the Albury LGA, which has a much higher population density,” he said.
“It is time for our community to really unite and respect social distancing measures that have been put in place by the Federal Government.”
Yarrawonga Health CEO Elaine Mallows echoed Mayor Bourke’s concerns after the local health service confirmed its second COVID-19 case last Friday adding to Moira Shire LGA’s total of six confirmed cases as of Monday, March 30.
YH confirmed the second positive case, like the first, was from a person that had recently returned from overseas and was following mandatory isolation requirements as per government regulation when they developed symptoms of COVID-19.
“It is time for us to work together and focus not only on what confronts us today, but plan for tomorrow, taking steps to protect everyone in the community – and to stop the spread,” Mrs Mallows said.
“I urge the community to please stay home, wash your hands regularly and remember social distancing saves lives.
“In the meantime, YH is working tirelessly on preparing our service for the forecast difficult months ahead.”
Mayor Bourke said whilst it is disappointing to hear that some are still having barbeques and social gatherings at their homes despite the latest restrictions, he was pleased to hear of residents reporting others who are not adhering to the regulations.
“This is your civil duty and I encourage all residents to continue to do this to protect one another. We need to demonstrate a united level of discipline; the time has come to take this very, very seriously,” he said.
“Please follow the advice of authorities when it comes to staying home and avoid any unnecessary trips and visits.
“If you are one of the small few that haven’t changed your lifestyle, and you are not taking this pandemic seriously, you are letting your loved ones and your community down.
“You only have to see the current state of other countries to know that if we do not all collectively do our bit, then the possibility of losing people we love and care for in our communities is very real, and in large numbers.”
Moira Shire Council Mayor Libro Mustica said all people and the council need to be adaptable and responsible.
“Everyone has a role to play in protecting yourself and your family and indeed the community at large, and there is no better way than to start with your personal health and stay at home except for essential trips for food and medical provisions,” Mr Mustica said.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said in a statement on Monday the number of cases of coronavirus in Victoria is continually increasing with four people already dead, many more are in hospital or self-isolating at home.
“In order to avoid the distressing scenes, we now are seeing around the world, National Cabinet has agreed to significant new restrictions on public gatherings and will also enforce that where people can stay at home, they must stay at home, Premier Andrews said. ”
“My message to every Victorian is that there are only four reasons to leave your home: food and supplies, medical care, exercise, and work or education.
“Most Victorians are doing the right thing and I’m grateful to them. But we continue to see instances of people gathering in significant numbers so we must do more.
“That’s why we are also restricting gatherings to no more than two people except for members of your immediate household and for work or education.
“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.”
Premier Andrews said Stage 3 restrictions will come into effect from 11:59pm Monday, March 30 and will be reviewed after four weeks.
“If people breach these directions, they face on-the-spot fines of $1,652 for individuals and $9,913 for businesses. Larger fines can also be issued through the courts.
“Life is going to look very different for a while but if we don’t make these changes now, the virus will continue to spread, and our health system will be overwhelmed.
“To flatten the curve, we are all going to have to sacrifice a lot. But it may be the most important thing we ever do.
“So please: Stay home. Protect our health system. Save lives.”
The Victorian Department of Health and Human Services has a hotline for public information on COVID-19 which is 1800 675 398.