One of the eight new coronavirus cases recorded in Victoria was a person who attended last Saturday’s Black Lives Matter protest in Melbourne.
The man, in his 30s, is not believed to have acquired the virus at the rally, nor did he show any symptoms at the time. However, it’s possible he may have transmitted it to others who were there.
“I hope that anyone who has attended that [protest], and indeed across Victoria, who develop symptoms that are compatible with coronavirus really need to isolate themselves, get tested, get that result back and become well before they get out and about again,” the state’s Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said.
While the man was wearing a mask, health authorities have repeatedly warned that these aren’t necessarily shields against spreading or catching the disease.
The organisers of the rally, Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance, had already urged attendees to self-isolate for 14 days after attending the rally.
“Be mindful of your health and speak to a doctor if you have cold or flu like symptoms,” the organisers said in a Facebook post on Monday.
“We are relying on your common sense and discretion to consider what’s best for you.”
They also had safety marshals throughout the demonstration to hand out free facemasks and hand sanitiser, as a precaution.
The news comes after anyone who developed symptoms after attending a rally was urged to get tested for COVID-19 as soon as possible.
A day after the protests, Australia’s Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly told protesters showing symptoms to get tested and stay home, while on Monday, the call was also backed by President of the Australian Medical Association Tony Bartone.
For the time being, the new cases aren’t being seen as a setback in terms of easing lockdowns.
Around two weeks ago, the Prime Minister said any new COVID-19 cases popping up wouldn’t stop the government implementing its three-step plan to get out of lockdowns. Today, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg reiterated that, saying “it is important to move ahead with that time table” despite the new cases.
The other seven new cases include a hotel worker, an aged-care worker and a toddler. None are reported to have any connection to the protests.
For those who did show up at protests on the weekend, the message is clear: if you have any cold or flu-like symptoms, get tested for COVID-19 as soon as possible.
If you think you may have coronavirus, either call your doctor (DON’T visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. If you’re struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.
And please remember to wash your hands frequently (for at least 20 seconds) and keep at least 1.5 metres between you and those around you.
