This week the Victorian Government has asked everyone who lives in metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire to wear a face covering when they leave home to reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
In the Mount Alexander Shire, and indeed any region of Victoria other than the Mitchell Shire or metropolitan Melbourne, we are being asked to wear one when we leave home and social distancing is not possible. For example when we’re shopping, catching public transport or visiting the doctor.
The wearing of masks was not advocated in the early stages of the pandemic, but Susan Wyatt, who is currently overseeing infection control at Castlemaine Health, says we now understand more about the virus and what will make a difference.
“New research around face masks specific to COVID-19 has shown they have an effect in reducing transmission,” she says. See our Health feature in the Mail for the full story. Out Now.
