Trade unions are also calling on the government to reinstate Covid leave payment amid Omicron wave
Photograph: Lisa Maree Williams/Getty ImagesPhotograph: Lisa Maree Williams/Getty ImagesMedical experts have criticised federal and state governments for “inconsistent” messaging around the looming winter virus wave, with new face mask rules all but ruled out nationwide.
Butler said on Wednesday that expanding mask mandates would be “difficult to maintain” but recommended people wear face coverings in crowded or high-risk areas. “This includes increased use of masks and increasing the use of antiviral treatment in people diagnosed with Covid-19, including in people aged 50 years and above.”
Dr Chris Moy, vice president of the Australian Medical Association, was critical of politicians ruling out mask mandates, which he said was “totally premature”. “We’re concerned the premature end to this parent will leave thousands of workers with the impossible choice of obeying isolation rules or paying their bills,” said ACTU president Michele O’Neil.
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