By Ewen McRae
Cases of COVID-19 in Melton have hit their highest point of the pandemic, with dozens of new cases detected in the past week.
While Melton has been included in the reintroduction of stage 3 lockdown measures for metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire, the rise in cases across the state has been reflected in local numbers.
There were 124 active cases of the virus within the Melton municipality on July 19, up from just 13 active cases at the end of June.
There has now been 210 cases of the virus within Melton since the pandemic began.
Despite travel restrictions between the metropolitan ring and Moorabool, there have also been three new cases detected within the shire, bringing their total to five.
It comes as the state government made face masks mandatory in public from July 23, with $200 fines for those that fail to comply.
Djerriwarrh Health Services chief executive Belinda Scott said despite the rise in cases she was proud of the response from staff and urged the community to continue to come forward to be tested in they have symptoms.
“I am particularly proud of the way our team has stepped up during this time and have continued to provide the exceptional level of care that our community has come to expect from us,” Ms Scott said.
“As the number of cases has climbed, we have seen an increase in the demand on our drive through fever clinic in Melton, demand that we continue to meet.
“Since March our COVID-19 drive through testing clinic has screened more than 14,285 members of the community.
“The number of cases in Moorabool remain low compared to other areas in Victoria, which reflects the continued efforts of our community to protect each other. However, it is crucial that we all play our part by following social distancing and hygiene advice.”
