Surge driven by new Omicron variant prompts AMA and leading epidemiologists to call for stronger mask mandates
Bennett said in Victoria, where Covid has been recorded in 40% of the wastewater, the state might be halfway to the peak – which should end in late July or early August.“I think if you look back at BA.1, we peaked dramatically high, we came up and down. With BA.2 we were going into autumn/winter – then it pushed up and down again.She said people should get their third and fourth doses, in line with Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation advice.
“We are seeing a very steep increase in case numbers,” Esterman said. “Should we be worried? Yes, because the health system is under enormous pressure right now. The AMA’s vice-president, Chris Moy, said in terms of crowding this is the worst he had ever seen it.“Everybody telling me it’s horrific. It’s winter, and there’s the flu, but they’re also seeing a lot of mental health patients at the moment. Covid is adding an extra layer.”
In New South Wales the chief health officer, Kerry Chant, urged people to consider wearing masks in enclosed spaces.
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