Postcard from Lockdown

[indigohex3]

DAY 100
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hour: 2 new cases (157 active cases) 816 lives lost (0 deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

8.7

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.6

Today we saw 2 new cases here in Victoria, one of today’s new cases is a household contact of an existing case and the other case, which remains under investigation, relates to a patient at the Royal Children’s Hospital. All close contacts are being tested and isolated. DHHS respects the privacy of patients and cannot provide details about individual cases unless it is necessary to do so in the interest of public health.

There has been no deaths in the past 24 hours.

And now to the data from today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Friday 16 October)

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4280 cases may indicate community transmission – an increase of two since yesterday
• 157 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 14 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,279 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 2,906,876 test results have been received which is an increase of 16,381 since yesterday.

Of the 157 current active cases in Victoria:

• 150 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Seven are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. There are four active cases are in Mitchell Shire and three in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,919 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1200 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9690 men and 10,614 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3598, active cases: 10
• There are 14 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Active aged care outbreaks with the highest active case numbers are as follows:

• 5 active cases are currently linked to Uniting Age Well Preston (total cases: 5)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to Estia Aged Care Facility Keilor (total cases: 52)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to Embracia Moonee Valley Aged Care Facility (total cases: 83)

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• 13 active cases are currently linked to the Chadstone Shopping Centre (total cases: 38)
• 12 active cases are currently linked to the Box Hill Hospital (total cases: 14)
• 9 cases are linked to the south-eastern community (total cases: 9)
• 5 active cases are currently linked to the Frankston Family (total cases: 13)
• 4 active cases are currently linked to the Oddfellows Café in Kilmore (total cases: 6)
• 4 active cases are currently linked to the Elwood community (total cases: 4)

And now to the Top 10 local government areas in regards to active cases (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Friday 16 October):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
WYNHDAM	2266	17
HOBSONS BAY	503	13
HUME	1651	13
BANYULE	448	12
MONASH	339	11
MELTON	1145	10
BRIMBANK	2035	9
WHITEHORSE	217	9
FRANKSTON	251	7
CASEY	1060	6
GREATER DANDENONG	542	6
PORT PHILLIP	294	6
INTERSTATE	98	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20317	157

Even though I am very conservative in how we should relax restrictions (politically, I am very progressive), I am beginning to think that some of the restrictions will go on Sunday, and I think that would be a good thing. I think the 5 kilometre rule will be extended to 20 kilometres, and some more stores will open. But as I have mentioned many times in this blog, we need to be conservative and not rush into things, especially because of what is currently happening over in Europe in which lockdowns are coming back. Is it because they were too quick? Possibly (almost certain it was done too quickly). People are saying that there is more freedoms in New South Wales, but I think comparing Victoria to New South Wales is like comparing apples and oranges - New South Wales came from a low base while Victoria came from a high base. And I am beginning to think that New South Wales could become the new epicentre of the coronavirus here in Australia as for the past two days, New South Wales had more cases than Victoria.

Today, I went for a walk and during the day, I listened to the radio. Tonight, I did a bit of writing and watched television (just watched 8 Out of 10 Cats on SBS).

TOMORROW: Watch the ACT elections and study Korean.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

DAY 101
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 1 new case (148 active cases) 816 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

8.1

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.5

Today, we only saw one case here in Victoria (the new case being in Hume), but has been cancelled out by one case being reclassified, so there was no overall increase today. There were no deaths today.

And now to the data for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Saturday 17 October):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4281 cases may indicate community transmission – an increase of one since yesterday
• 148 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 13 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,287 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 2,925,810 test results have been received which is an increase of 18,934 since yesterday.

Of the 148 current active cases in Victoria:

• 141 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Seven are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. There are four active cases in Mitchell Shire and three in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,919 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1200 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9690 men and 10,614 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3598, active cases: 11
• There are 13 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Active aged care outbreaks with the highest active case numbers are as follows:

• 5 active cases are currently linked to Uniting Age Well Preston (total cases: 5)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to Estia Aged Care Facility Keilor (total cases: 52)
• 2 active cases are currently linked to Embracia Moonee Valley Aged Care Facility (total cases: 83)

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• 12 active cases are currently linked to the Chadstone Shopping Centre (total cases: 38)
• 12 active cases are currently linked to the Box Hill Hospital (total cases: 14)
• 9 cases are linked to the south-eastern community (total cases: 9)
• 4 active cases are currently linked to the Oddfellows Café in Kilmore (total cases: 6)

And now to the top 10 local government areas in regards to active cases (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Saturday 17 October):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
WYNHDAM	2266	18
HUME	1652	13
BANYULE	448	12
HOBSONS BAY	503	12
MELTON	1145	10
MONASH	339	10
BRIMBANK	2035	9
WHITEHORSE	217	9
CASEY	1060	6
DAREBIN	649	5
GREATER DANDENONG	542	5
INTERSTATE	98	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20317	148

Today has largely been quiet (I went for a walk twice today), and I am currently watching the ACT Elections on ABC News. I will be studying Korean later on tonight. And anyone from the ACT here, can you please explain what this Belco Party is, because as I am not from the ACT, I wouldn't know what this party is, thank you in advance for explaining it to me.

TOMORROW: Listen to the radio. And I will be watching the big announcement from Daniel Andrews tomorrow, and I suspect that the 5 kilometre rule will be extended out beyond 5 kilometres, possibly to 20 kilometres.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 102
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 2 new cases (137 active cases) 816 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

7.5

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.5

Today, Victoria has two new cases (an overall decrease of two due to four cases being reclassified). One of today’s new cases is linked to a new Hoppers Crossing community outbreak that now comprises four cases across two households. The other case is being investigated for links to known cases in Melbourne’s north metropolitan region. Today’s two new cases are in the local government area of Hume. There has been a recent case reported in a staff member at Kemp’s Bakery in Kilmore. There were no deaths today.

Before the statistics for today, there was the big announcement today by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews), and the biggest surprise was the travel distance restrictions. I was expected that it would be extended to 20 kilometres (as mentioned in previous posts), but when I heard it was 25 kilometres, I was surprised. Hairdressers reopens tomorrow, so I might go get a haircut tomorrow.

The changes for Metropolitan Melbourne as of 2359 tonight are as follows (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Summary of changes to restrictions for metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria):

• You can now travel up to 25 km from your home or permitted workplace within metropolitan Melbourne. This replaces the 5km rule. Travel to regional Victoria is still only allowed for permitted purposes even if this is within 25 kms. This means you cannot travel into regional Victoria for exercise or recreation.
• You can leave home for any period of time to exercise or see friends and family outdoors. This replaces the two hour limit on these activities. There are no limits on the number of times you can leave home.
• You can meet in a group of up to ten people from a maximum of two households outdoors in a public place to socialise (children under 12 months of age not included in the limit). An outdoor public place means areas accessible to everyone, including local parks and beaches. This replaces the limit of five people from a maximum of two households.
• You can exercise in a group of up to ten people from a maximum of two households outdoors in a public place (personal training is limited to two people plus the trainer). This replaces the limit of five people from a maximum of two households.
• Some outdoor activities can take place in outdoor sport and recreation facilities. Outdoor sport and recreation facilities can open if:
  • They are predominantly used for outdoor sport or physical recreation
  • There is no equipment for hire or sharing
  • Indoor facilities such as change rooms are not permitted for use, however toilet facilities are permitted to open.
  • A limit of 10 people from 2 household per group or more than 10 if the entire group is from the same household and you must be able to keep 1.5 metres between yourself and others.
  • Restrictions to no more than 10 people in the facility at once except where a distance of at least 100m between groups can be maintained (e.g. golf courses).
  • Examples include some outdoor tennis courts, golf courses, or bowling greens.
• More people who work outdoors will be able to return to work. Groups of up to five workers who work outside, including those who do the following types of work can return to on-site work:
  • outdoor non-essential home maintenance and repairs, including painting
  • outdoor pool and spa maintenance/cleaning for private residences and other outdoor cleaning
  • external car washing. This must be contactless and administration offices must remain closed
  • mobile pet grooming at residential properties, contactless with strict controls
  • outdoor professional photography including school photos (for purposes other than currently permitted purposes, e.g. media, real estate), they must have an ABN.
  • letterboxing (for purposes other than local elections).
  • Solar power installers
• Hairdressers and barbers will be able to recommence work. This includes operating mobile businesses and at home businesses, if they are registered, have separate entrances, and COVIDSafe practices.
• Allied health providers that are currently listed on the permitted work premised list will be able to return to delivering all routine care
• Hydrotherapy can resume between one health care professional and one client in indoor pools. No group sessions will be permitted and there will maximum of 10 people per pool at one time for hydrotherapy (five health care professionals and five clients).
• The maximum number of people permitted to use outdoor swimming pools for exercise has been increased by the density quotient to a maximum of 30 people.
• Real estate auctions, both residential and commercial will be permitted outdoors with a limit of 10 people, plus the minimum number of people required to conduct the auction.
• Commercial real estate pre-arranged inspections with 1 agent and 1 prospective purchaser or tenant.
• Additional changes to retail, hospitality and personal services will be made from 1 November, in line with the advice of our public health team.

The following changes are for regional Victoria, again as of 2359 tonight (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Summary of changes to restrictions for metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria):

• You can have up to two people visit you at home each day. Infants under 12 months are not included in this cap, and other dependents can also attend if they cannot be left unattended or cared for in another setting. The two people may be from different households. This replaces the household bubbles.
• Libraries and toy libraries can open for up to 20 people indoors. No more than 10 people can gather in a space (for example for a class). The one person per four square metre rule Signage, cleaning and record-keeping requirements apply.
• Outdoor religious gatherings are allowed for up to 20 people plus one faith leader. This replaces the limit of ten people. This includes ceremonies, with no sharing of food, drink, crockery, utensils, vessels or other equipment by participants.
• The limits of people in restaurants and cafes increases. You can have up to 70 people outdoors and up to 10 people per indoor space with a maximum of 40 people per venue indoors. The two and four square metre rules apply. Indoor spaces must be separated by permanent structures (should reach floor to ceiling or be at least 2.1 metres high) or be a discrete area of the premises. Businesses must continue to ensure people from metropolitan Melbourne do not eat-in.
• Indoor swimming pools can open exclusively for those aged 18 and under. There is a limit of 20 customers in the pool or the one person per four square metre rule (whichever is the smaller number of people).One parent/guardian/carer per child is permitted for supervision purposes and not included in the limit. Swimming classes can resume.
• Indoor pools can open for one-on-one hydrotherapy sessions with a limit of 10 people in the pool at one time.
• Licensed tourism services that use open-air vehicles only are permitted to operate. A vehicle, inclusive of roofed vehicles, is considered an open-air vehicle if at least two sides are open to airflow at all times.

And now to the data for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Sunday 18 October):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4277 cases may indicate community transmission – a decrease of four since yesterday
• 137 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 12 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,295 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 2,944,356 test results have been received which is an increase of 18,546 since yesterday.

Of the 137 current active cases in Victoria:

• 130 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Seven are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. There are four active cases in Mitchell Shire and three in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,917 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1200 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9688 men and 10,614 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3599, active cases: 11
• There are 10 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Active aged care outbreaks with the highest active case numbers are as follows:

• 3 active cases are currently linked to Estia Aged Care Facility Keilor (total cases: 52)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to Uniting Age Well Preston (total cases: 5)

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• 11 active cases are currently linked to the Chadstone Shopping Centre (total cases: 38)
• 9 active cases are currently linked to the Box Hill Hospital (total cases: 14)
• 9 cases are linked to the south-eastern community (total cases: 9)
• 4 active cases are currently linked to the Oddfellows Café in Kilmore (total cases: 6)

And now to the local government areas (top 10 listed below in regards to active cases, see Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Sunday 18 October for the full table):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
WYNDHAM	2265	18
HUME	1654	14
HOBSONS BAY	503	12
MELTON	1145	10
MONASH	339	10
BRIMBANK	2035	9
BANYULE	448	8
WHITEHORSE	217	8
GREATER DANDENONG	542	5
CASEY	1059	4
DAREBIN	649	4
MARIBYRNONG	593	4
MITCHELL	90	4
PORT PHILLIP	294	4
INTERSTATE	98	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20315	137

Today, I mostly listened to the radio and I am currently watching the Brownlow Medal.

TOMORROW: Homework Club (via Zoom), and I might get my hair cut (if the hairdresser is open tomorrow). I will be watching a bit of television tomorrow night.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 103
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 4 new cases (136 active ) 817 lives lost (+1 new death in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

7.2

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.5

Today, we had 4 new cases, and of today’s four new cases, one is a case who previously tested positive in July and further investigation is under way. Three of today’s cases are from the same household in Melbourne’s north. Sadly, there has been one death in the past 24 hours, a man aged in his 90s.

And now to the data for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - 19 October 2020):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4278 cases may indicate community transmission – an increase of one since yesterday
• 136 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 12 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,299 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 2,955,149 test results have been received which is an increase of 10,793 since yesterday.

Of the 136 current active cases in Victoria:

• 129 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Seven are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. There are four active cases in Mitchell Shire and three in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,922 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1199 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9691 men and 10,615 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3599, active cases: 11
• There are 11 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Active aged care outbreaks with the highest active case numbers are as follows:

• 4 active cases are currently linked to Uniting Age Well Preston (total cases: 5)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to Estia Aged Care Facility Keilor (total cases: 52)

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• 13 active cases are currently linked to the north metro region community (total cases: 17)
• 9 active cases are currently linked to the Chadstone Shopping Centre (total cases: 38)
• 9 active cases are currently linked to the Box Hill Hospital (total cases: 14)
• 9 cases are linked to the south-eastern community (total cases: 9)
• 4 active cases are currently linked to the Oddfellows Café in Kilmore (total cases: 6)
• 4 active cases are currently linked to the Hoppers Crossing community outbreak (total cases: 4)

And now to the top 10 local government areas in regards to active cases (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - 19 October 2020):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
WYNDHAM	2264	18
HUME	1657	17
MONASH	339	10
BRIMBANK	2033	9
MELTON	1151	9
BANYULE	448	8
HOBSONS BAY	501	8
WHITEHORSE	217	8
CASEY	1059	5
GREATER DANDENONG	542	5
INTERSTATE	98	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20319	136

If you want to know how far 25 kilometres from your home is, you can view it at the following website (How far is 25km from your home? | Coronavirus Victoria), just type your full address and you will find out. It is huge, I can go as far west as Melton, as far east as La Trobe University Bundorra Campus, as far south as Point Cook and as far north as Donnybrook. Even Melbourne's Central Business District is within 25 kilometres.

Today, I got the bus to Watergardens (I was on a bus for the first time in around 6 months) and attempted to get my hair cut, but every hairdresser has long queues, so I will wait to Wednesday. I went to volunteer at homework club today (via Zoom) as it was Monday, and not long after that, went to a webinar (again via Zoom). I watched a bit of television tonight.

TOMORROW: Course at CAE (via Zoom)

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 104
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 1 new case (122 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

6.4

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.4

Today, there was one new case in Victoria, but there is a possibility that today's sole case is in fact a false positive (tested positive back in July). This new case is being reviewed by an expert panel of clinicians and epidemiologists to determine if this is a new infection or if the person is still shedding virus from their original infection. If it is indeed a false positive, it would be our first day since about July in which there has been zero cases in a 24-hour period. There has been no new deaths in the past 24 hours. So it looks like Victoria is getting on top of the second wave, and there is a possibility that some more restrictions will be lifted next week.

And now to the data for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Tuesday 20 October):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4277 cases may indicate community transmission – a decrease of one since yesterday
• 122 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 11 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,313 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 2,967,085 test results have been received which is an increase of 11,936 since yesterday

Of the 122 current active cases in Victoria:

• 119 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• 3 are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. The three cases are in Greater Shepparton. There are now no active cases in Mitchell Shire

Of the total cases:

• 18,924 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1199 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9692 men and 10,616 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3600, active cases: 10
• There are 9 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Active aged care outbreaks with the highest active case numbers are as follows:

• 3 active cases are currently linked to Uniting Age Well Preston (total cases: 5)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to Estia Aged Care Facility Keilor (total cases: 52)

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• 12 active cases are currently linked to the north metro region community (total cases: 20)
• 9 active cases are currently linked to the Box Hill Hospital (total cases: 14)
• 9 cases are currently linked to the south-eastern community (total cases: 9)
• 7 active cases are currently linked to the Chadstone Shopping Centre (total cases: 39)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to the Hoppers Crossing community outbreak (total cases: 4)

And now to the local government areas (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Tuesday 20 October)

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
WYNDHAM	2264	17
HUME	1657	15
BRIMBANK	2034	10
MELTON	1151	9
HOBSONS BAY	501	8
MONASH	339	8
WHITEHORSE	217	8
BANYULE	448	6
CASEY	1059	5
GREATER DANDENONG	542	5
INTERSTATE	98	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20320	122

Today, first and foremost, I got a haircut today (had to go to Deer Park to get the much anticipated haircut, but I had to wear a mask and register my details as is now required). I did the course via CAE today (via Zoom) this morning.

TOMORROW: Get my new glasses (it was to be delivered today, but I was in Deer Park getting my haircut, so I am going to the post office tomorrow to get it) and study Korean.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 105
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 3 new cases (109 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

6.2

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.4

Today we had 3 new cases here in Victoria with two of the new cases being linked to the northern metro region community outbreak and one is a household contact of a known case. You may remember that yesterday about a case, which continues to be reviewed and assessed by an expert panel of clinicians and epidemiologists to determine if this is a new infection or if the person is still shedding virus from their original infection. One of the avenues being pursued is that it is a reinfection, which is rare and it has only happened several times.

There has been no deaths today.

And now to the data for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Media release - Coronavirus update for Victoria - Wednesday 21 October):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4276 cases may indicate community transmission – a decrease of one since yesterday
• 109 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 10 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,329 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 2,984,494 test results have been received which is an increase of 17,409 since yesterday

Of the 109 current active cases in Victoria:

• 106 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• 3 are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. The three cases are in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,927 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1198 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9691 men and 10,619 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3602, active cases: 8
• There are 8 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Active aged care outbreaks with the highest active case numbers are as follows:

• 3 active cases are currently linked to Uniting Age Well Preston (total cases: 5)
• 2 active cases are currently linked to Estia Aged Care Facility Keilor (total cases: 52)

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• 14 active cases are currently linked to the north metro region community (total cases: 23)
• 8 active cases are currently linked to the Box Hill Hospital (total cases: 14)
• 7 cases are currently linked to the south-eastern community (total cases: 9)
• 5 active cases are currently linked to the Chadstone Shopping Centre (total cases: 39)
• 3 active cases are currently linked to the Hoppers Crossing community outbreak (total cases: 4)

And now to the top 10 local government areas in regards to active cases (you can view the full table at Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Media release - Coronavirus update for Victoria - Wednesday 21 October):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
HUME	1659	17
WYNDHAM	2265	16
BRIMBANK	2033	8
WHITEHORSE	217	8
MELTON	1151	7
MONASH	339	7
BANYULE	448	5
CASEY	1059	5
HOBSONS BAY	502	4
MARIBYRNONG	593	4
PORT PHILLIP	294	4
INTERSTATE	98	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20323	109

Today was a relatively quiet day. I got my new glasses today (only one pair, the other one I expect will arrive tomorrow), and listened to the radio. I watched a bit of television tonight (just watched QI on ABC).

TOMORROW: Study Korean

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 106
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 5 new cases (105 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

6.1

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.4

Today we have five new cases of coronavirus here in Victoria, all in the northern suburbs of Melbourne.

More than 500 people in a number of northern suburbs have been advised to isolate to assist in controlling an outbreak of coronavirus.

In addition, any residents of the northern suburbs including Dallas, Roxburgh Park, Broadmeadows, Preston and West Heidelberg who are experiencing symptoms are being urged to be tested for coronavirus.

There has been no deaths in the past 24 hours.

And now to the data for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - 22 October 2020):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4,275 cases may indicate community transmission – a decrease of one since yesterday
• 105 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 9 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,340 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 3,002,936 test results have been received which is an increase of 18,442 since yesterday

Of the 105 current active cases in Victoria:

• 102 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• 3 are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. The three cases are in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,933 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1,198 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9,695 men and 10,621 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3,604, active cases: 8
• There are five active cases linked to aged care, spread across Estia sites in Keilor, Ringwood and Heidelberg and Uniting Age Well in Preston.

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• Northern metro region community (active 16, total 28)
• Eastern Health Box Hill Hospital (active 8, total 14)
• South-eastern community (active 6, total 9)
• Chadstone Shopping Centre (active 4, total 39)

As public health work is undertaken throughout the day, outbreak totals are likely to change as the public health team identify links between cases and identified outbreaks. Organisation based outbreak totals include contacts as well as employees/residents/staff/students of that location/business.

And now to the local government areas (you can view the full table at Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - 22 October 2020):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
HUME	1663	19
WYNDHAM	2266	16
BRIMBANK	2033	8
WHITEHORSE	217	8
MELTON	1151	7
MONASH	339	6
BANYULE	449	4
CASEY	1059	4
MARIBYRNONG	593	4
GREATER DANDENONG	542	3
GREATER SHEPPARTON	52	3
HOBSONS BAY	502	3
MELBOURNE	880	3
PORT PHILLIP	294	3
KNOX	166	2
MOONEE VALLEY	813	2
WHITTLESEA	1203	2
BAYSIDE	246	1
BOROONDARA	271	1
DAREBIN	651	1
FRANKSTON	251	1
GLEN EIRA	230	1
MANNINGHAM	165	1
MORELAND	1051	1
STONNINGTON	260	1
INTERSTATE	98	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20329	105

Today, I forgot all about a webinar, which I did attend. I went for a walk today and listened to the radio. I am currently listening to Son of Crawdaddy on Triple R here in Melbourne.

TOMORROW: Study Korean. And its AFL Grand Final Eve here in Melbourne (even though this year's AFL Grand Final will be at the Brisbane Cricket Ground (also known as the Gabba) this year). And I will be watching television tomorrow night.

See you tomorrow.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 107
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 1 new case (100 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne: 14-Day Running Average

5.5

Regional Victoria: 14-Day Running Average

0.3

Today we had one new case in Victoria and we now have 100 active cases, and included in this outbreak is a student and today’s case who is a parent from the East Preston Islamic College from the Darebin LGA. Currently no contact has been established between the parent and the student however, investigations are underway with the school and family to fully explore all possible links.

There has been no deaths in the past 24 hours.

And now to the statistics for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Friday 23 October 2020):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4275 cases may indicate community transmission – no change since yesterday
• 100 cases are currently active in Victoria
• 8 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,346 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 3,022,364 test results have been received which is an increase of 19,428 since yesterday.

Of the 100 current active cases in Victoria:

• 98 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Two are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. Both are in Greater Shepparton, a decrease of one since yesterday.

Of the total cases:

• 18,931 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1201 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9695 men and 10,622 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3577, active cases: 7
• There are 5 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• Northern metro region community (active 16, total 28)
• Eastern Health Box Hill Hospital (active 8, total 15)
• Chadstone Shopping Centre (active 4, total 39)
• South-eastern community (active 4, total 9)

And now to the local government areas (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Friday 23 October 2020):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
HUME	1664	19
WYNDHAM	2265	15
BRIMBANK	2026	8
MELTON	1152	7
WHITEHORSE	217	7
BANYULE	448	4
MARIBYRNONG	593	4
MONASH	339	4
CASEY	1055	3
GREATER DANDENONG	541	3
HOBSONS BAY	504	3
MELBOURNE	882	3
PORT PHILLIP	294	3
INTERSTATE	97	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	97	0
TOTAL	20330	100

Today, I downloaded The Crown Tundra, and will be playing it tomorrow. I largely relaxed today, and I watched television tonight (I am currently watching 8 Out of 10 Cats on SBS).

TOMORROW: Study Korean and watching the AFL Grand Final tomorrow night (I am tipping Richmond to win back-to-back premierships, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's close).

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 108
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 7 new cases (98 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

5.0

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.2

Today, we fell under the psychological 100 active cases, falling to 98 active cases. The last time Victoria had less than 100 cases was back on 19 June. There were 7 new cases today, with six of today’s seven new cases are linked to known outbreaks and cases. One is a close contact already identified as part of the Hoppers Crossing community outbreak and was already in quarantine and one is a staff member from Estia Keilor. One is a student from East Preston Islamic College, one is a student from Croxton Special School, also linked to East Preston Islamic College through family and two are parents from East Preston Islamic College. The remaining case is a previously positive case that is currently under investigation.

There were no deaths today.

And now to the statistics for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria – 24 October 2020):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4277 cases may indicate community transmission – an increase of two since yesterday
• 98 cases are currently active in Victoria. June 19 was the last time Victoria had under 100 cases.
• 8 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,354 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 3,039,583 test results have been received which is an increase of 17,219 since yesterday.

Of the 98 current active cases in Victoria:

• 96 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Two are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. Both are in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,936 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1202 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9699 men and 10,624 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3580, active cases: 7
• There are 4 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• Northern metro region community (active 15, total 28)
• Eastern Health Box Hill Hospital (active 7, total 15)
• South-eastern community (active 4, total 9)
• Chadstone Shopping Centre (active 3, total 39)

And now to the local government areas (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria – 24 October 2020 for the full table):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
HUME	1665	17
WYNDHAM	2266	15
BRIMBANK	2025	8
MELTON	1152	7
WHITEHORSE	217	6
BANYULE	449	5
DAREBIN	657	5
MARIBYRNONG	594	5
GREATER DANDENONG	541	4
MONASH	338	4
INTERSTATE	97	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	97	0
TOTAL	20336	98

Today was a relative quiet day for me. I just watched the Grand Final (Richmond winning their third premiership in four seasons and first back-to-back since 1973-1974, and 100 seasons since winning their first premiership in 1921). Tomorrow night, I will be watching the NRL Grand Final between my favourite team Melbourne Storm (because I'm from Melbourne) taking on Penrith Panthers. Even though I go for Melbourne Storm, I got a feeling that Penrith will win the NRL Premiership this year, especially after a rather difficult season for everyone with coronavirus, which also saw Melbourne Storm relocate temporarily to the Sunshine Coast due to the second wave in Victoria. This also happened with the AFL this year, so it is nice to see both major codes finish off a season that not many people thought it would (for the record, the 2020 AFLW Season was abandoned after Week 1 of the finals).

TOMORROW: Listen to the radio and study Korean. And watch the NRL Grand Final. Good luck to both sides.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 109
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 7 new cases (100 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

4.6

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.2

Today we were expecting a big announcement, but it has been delayed by a few days because of cases in northern Melbourne. Today, we had seven new cases, and no deaths in the past 24 hours.

And now to the statistics of the day (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Sunday 25 October 2020):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4277 cases may indicate community transmission – no change since yesterday
• 100 cases are currently active in Victoria.
• 7 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,359 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 3,052,477 test results have been received which is an increase of 12,894 since yesterday.

Of the 100 current active cases in Victoria:

• 98 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Two are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. Both are in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,944 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1202 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9701 men and 10,629 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3581, active cases: 8
• There are 4 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• Northern metro region community (active 24, total 37)
• Eastern Health Box Hill Hospital (active 5, total 15)
• South-eastern community (active 4, total 9)

And now to the local government areas (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Sunday 25 October 2020 is where you can view the full table)

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
HUME	1666	17
WYNDHAM	2266	15
BANYULE	452	8
BRIMBANK	2024	8
DAREBIN	660	7
MELTON	1153	7
MARIBYRNONG	595	5
GREATER DANDENONG	541	4
HOBSONS BAY	504	3
MONASH	338	3
PORT PHILLIP	295	3
WHITEHORSE	217	3
INTERSTATE	97	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	96	0
TOTAL	20343	100

Today I called my grandfather and listened to the radio. I am currently watching the NRL Grand Final and Melbourne Storm won their fourth NRL Premiership (YES!) I am just about to study Korean.

TOMORROW: As its Monday, homework club and study Korean. And watch some television tomorrow night.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 110
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 0 new cases (91 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

3.6

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.2

What a day: For the first time since 9 June, there were no new cases (an overall decrease of 2 due to 2 cases being reclassified) and for the seventh straight day, no deaths. As you may be aware, there were fears of an outbreak in the northern suburbs, but all tests returned negative.

And now to the data for today (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Monday 26 October 2020):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4276 cases may indicate community transmission – a decrease of one since yesterday
• 91 cases are currently active in Victoria.
• 7 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,366 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 3,066,501 test results have been received which is an increase of 14,024 since yesterday.

Of the 91 current active cases in Victoria:

• 89 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Two are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. Both are in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,944 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1201 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9700 men and 10,628 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3580, active cases: 6
• There are 4 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• Northern metro region community (active 22, total 39)
• Eastern Health Box Hill Hospital (active 5, total 15)
• South-eastern community (active 3, total 9)

Today, a big announcement was made by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, and boy it was huge. Many businesses will reopen on Wednesday (there will be a dark opening tomorrow to prepare). Some of the restrictions that will be lifted at 2359 tomorrow night includes (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Statement from the Premier - 26 October 2020):

Under the Third Step, Melbourne's cafes, restaurants and pubs can reopen. Outdoors with a limit of up to 50, indoors up to 20. Density limits, record keeping and COVIDSafe Plans also apply.

Remaining retail will also open. Beauty and personal care services can resume. And for those businesses who need to get ready for their reopening — staff will be able to attend onsite straight away.

Outdoor contact sport for those aged 18 and under will also begin again — so too can non-contact sport for adults. PT, fitness and dance classes can also be held outdoors with up to ten people, and the number of people at outdoor pools can increase to 50, subject to density limits.

Libraries and community venues will be able to open for outdoor events. Outdoor entertainment venues can also begin hosting visitors.

And faith communities will be able to meet for outdoor religious ceremonies with up to 20 people, in addition to those required for the service. Indoor services can be held with up to 10.

Weddings will increase to ten people, and funerals up to 20.

Workplaces will no longer need to be on the permitted work list to open and the ability to work will change to "if you can work from home you must work from home".

While the boundary is in place, work permits will still be required for workers from Melbourne travelling into regional Victoria — and vice versa.

The 25 kilometre rule and the ring of steel around Melbourne will be lifted on 8 November at 2359.

And now to the local government areas (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Monday 26 October 2020):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
HUME	1668	14
WYNDHAM	2265	14
BRIMBANK	2023	8
DAREBIN	661	7
MELTON	1153	7
BANYULE	451	6
MARIBYRNONG	594	4
GREATER DANDENONG	541	3
HOBSONS BAY	504	3
PORT PHILLIP	295	3
WHITEHORSE	217	3
INTERSTATE	97	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	95	0
TOTAL	20341	91

Today, I volunteered at a homework club via Zoom and everyone was excited by the news of the imminent lifting of the lockdown (as mentioned before, 8 November at 2359, it will be gone). The following is an article I found on The Conversation about the lifting of many restrictions in the coming days and weeks (Today marks the official end of the second wave in Victoria, as old freedoms return), and an article on the website of LaTrobe University here in Melbourne (Bundoora campus is on the easternmost edge of the area I can travel in, that's how big 25 kilometres is- WHO is right about lockdowns). I am about to study Korean.

TOMORROW: A course at CAE (via Zoom) and study Korean, and watch a bit of television tomorrow night.

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

END OF DAY 111
Cases in Victoria in Past 24 Hours: 0 new cases (87 active cases) 817 lives lost (0 new deaths in past 24 hours)

Metropolitan Melbourne 14-Day Running Average

2.8

Regional Victoria 14-Day Running Average

0.2

For the first time since 5-6 March (just before the Labour Day long weekend), we had two days of zero cases. And for the eighth day in a row, there has been no deaths.

And now to the stats for the day (Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Tuesday 27 October 2020):

In Victoria at the current time:

• 4276 cases may indicate community transmission – no change since yesterday
• 87 cases are currently active in Victoria.
• 5 cases of coronavirus are in hospital, there are no cases in intensive care
• 19,370 people have recovered from the virus
• A total of 3,081,980 test results have been received which is an increase of 15,479 since yesterday.

Of the 87 current active cases in Victoria:

• 85 are in metropolitan Melbourne under the Second Step of our roadmap
• Two are in regional local government areas under the Third Step of our roadmap. Both are in Greater Shepparton.

Of the total cases:

• 18,944 cases are from metropolitan Melbourne, while 1201 are from regional Victoria
• Total cases include 9700 men and 10,628 women
• Total number of healthcare workers: 3581, active cases: 7
• There are 4 active cases relating to aged care facilities

Non-aged care outbreaks with the highest number of active cases include:

• Northern metro region community (active 22, total 39)
• Eastern Health Box Hill Hospital (active 5, total 15)
• South-eastern community (active 3, total 9)

And now to the local government areas (you can view the full table at Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Tuesday 27 October 2020):

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA	CONFIRMED CASES (EVER)	CURRENT CASES (ACTIVE)
WYNDHAM	2265	14
HUME	1668	13
BRIMBANK	2023	8
DAREBIN	663	7
BANYULE	451	6
MELTON	1153	6
MARIBYRNONG	594	4
GREATER DANDENONG	541	3
HOBSONS BAY	504	3
WHITEHORSE	217	3
INTERSTATE	97	0
OVERSEAS	4	0
UNKNOWN	95	0
TOTAL	20341	87

Tonight at 2359, a large amount of restrictions will be removed, but the 25 kilometre rule and the hard border between Melbourne and regional Victoria remains until 8 November. Apart from those two, we will have a lot of freedoms tomorrow. There is an article on The New Daily about the end of lockdown (Premier offers a top shelf result after Melbourne's emotional journey).

Today, I finished the course at CAE (via Zoom) and went for a walk. I watched a bit of television, and later tonight, I will study Korean.

TOMORROW: Study Korean, and enjoy some of the freedoms that I would have tomorrow (but remain COVID-safe)

And before I leave tonight, there was a picture that was on Twitter that was put up by Rupa FitzGerald that best represents what the world has been (and is still) going through. I think this picture was from the United States of America, but it best represents the solidarity that we have seen throughout the world. And if we enter a third wave (which I hope we don't), I feel that this will motivate us to get through it. No matter where you are in the world (such as the United States of America, South America and Europe, where there is tens of thousands of new cases, as well as in other parts of the world), I hope you have a look at this picture, and know that there is light at the end of the tunnel, just as what we will see in Melbourne in just over three hours time when we exit lockdown (but cinemas closures and several other restrictions will be gone on 8 November)

See you tomorrow.

 

[indigohex3]

DAY 1 SINCE THE END OF LOCKDOWN: THE EPILOGUE
Well, today I have decided to end the thread as everyone around the world knows Melbourne is no longer in lockdown (the end even got mentioned on BBC World Service, which was being broadcasted on ABC News Radio at around midnight last night, the very moment lockdown ended). But I will finish the post with some statistics for today. Even though Melbourne is new out of lockdown (bar the 25 kilometer rule and the hard border between Melbourne and regional Victoria), we still had 2 new cases (both are in isolation) and sadly two more deaths (819 deaths since the pandemic began) and both deaths occurred prior to yesterday. The 14-day running total for metropolitan Melbourne is 2.8 and regional Victoria is now 0. There are now 80 active cases in Victoria, and no doubt in the next couple of weeks, it will only go down, eventually to 0 on around 8 November when the final travel restrictions are lifted, and hopefully cinemas reopen on 8 November. You can view the statistics for day at Department of Health and Human Services Victoria | Coronavirus update for Victoria - Wednesday 28 October 2020.

On the news, people are enjoying freedoms (there was an edition of Seven News at 4pm from Yarraville), but we need to be vigilant in the fact that if we go overboard, we will go back to square one and will have to go through it all over again.

In a couple of weeks (just 48 hours before the end of the final restrictions), I will be heading to get some photos done for a profile in which I use to get extra work (yes, I am a film extra in case you are wondering), which has been delayed due to coronavirus, and it will be my first trip far from home since coronavirus (even though I am from Melbourne and the photo shoot will be in another part of Melbourne, but within 25 kilometres from home).

This is the final post in the thread, and hopefully this thread will serve as a reminder of what happened in 2020. Consider this thread as a time capsule of what happened in 2020.

And hopefully, I don't have to do it again.

 

[indigohex3]

I know I have officially retired this blog, but the 25km rule and the hard border between Melbourne and regional Victoria will go at 2359 tonight (2 hours from now), as well as other restrictions being lifted, which means Melbourne will now have the same rules that regional Victoria has had for the past couple of weeks. Victoria now has 4 active cases (2 in Greater Dandenong LGA, and one in Casey and Monash LGAs). My local LGA (Brimbank) now has 0 active cases.