Two Tasmanian hospitals are being shut to enable deep cleaning amid a COVID-19 cluster in the state's northwest, forcing thousands into quarantine
About 5000 people have been forced into quarantine in northwest Tasmania as health authorities battle a COVID-19 outbreak at two hospitals.
Of 144 coronavirus cases in Tasmania, 60 are linked to the hospital outbreak and 42 are healthcare workers at the facilities.About 1200 staff from the hospitals have been ordered to quarantine for two weeks along with their households, about 5000 people in total, Premier Peter Gutwein said on Monday."I've got to admit, the responsibility rests heavy on me in having to make these decisions. But I would ask that you work with us.
The state government is aiming to reopen the emergency department in 72 hours, with the goal of getting the hospitals back online after two weeks.
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