The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) noted the positive coronavirus test in a person who attended the large protest in Victoria last week. It will take some days to determine whether other people have been infected. AHPPC noted Victoria’s advice that a significant investigation to determine the source of the infection and identify close contacts is underway.
AHPPC emphasises once more the very high risk environment of a protest, with large numbers of people closely gathering and challenges in identifying all contacts. AHPPC again urges the Australian community to not participate in mass gatherings.
Anyone who attends protests must be vigilant and ensure they get tested if they develop any symptoms. Anyone who is feeling unwell or with symptoms should stay home. It is particularly important to avoid any interaction with people who are at greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Currently there is no requirement for people who attended the Melbourne protest or other protests to quarantine or be tested if they remain well (unless they have been identified as a close contact).
Situations like this are a reminder of how important it is for everyone to continue to take steps to protect themselves from COVID-19. This includes practising good hand and respiratory hygiene, staying 1.5m away from other people, staying home when sick, and getting tested if they have cold or flu like symptoms. AHPPC also reinforces the importance of downloading the COVIDSafe app to help public health authorities find people exposed to the virus quickly.
