Australia reported a major spike in coronavirus infections, after Prime Minister Scott Morrison rejected lockdowns or mask mandates to slow the spread of the omicron variant.
SYDNEY — Australia on Thursday reported a major spike in coronavirus infections, prompting the worst-hit state of New South Wales to reimpose mask wearing indoors, a day after Prime Minister Scott Morrison rejected lockdowns or mask mandates for the entire country to slow the spread of the omicron variant.
Morrison on Wednesday convened a Cabinet meeting with leaders of Australia’s states and territories. He later told reporters lockdowns and federally ordered mask mandates are not being considered. But in the face of fast-rising cases, New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet bowed to pressure from medical experts and others to announce that from midnight Thursday masks must be worn in indoor settings. Perrottet also announced the reinstatement of density limits that will allow only one person per 2 square meters indoors.
“This is a sensible response which will allow businesses to stay open, bars and restaurants to continue to stay open and major events to go ahead,” Victoria Acting Premier James Merlino said. “Masks are a cheap and effective way to maintain the health of the community. It’s something public health experts have been calling for."
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