Canberra will enter a seven day lockdown

The nation’s capital will enter a seven day lockdown from 5pm today after the result of a positive COVID-19 case who has been infectious while in the community.

ACT Health has also confirmed the virus in present in the region for the first time in 12 months through positive wastewater detection. Authorities currently do not know the source of the infection.

It will be the first time that the ACT has entered a lockdown of this nature since the early days of the pandemic.

“This is by far the most serious public health risk the ACT has faced in the past 12 months, and that’s why the ACT is introducing a strict lockdown in response to this positive case,” ACT Health’s statement says.

Canberrans will be asked to only leave their homes for essential reasons – essential employment, healthcare (including a COVID-19 vaccination), essential groceries and supplies and up to one hour of outdoor exercise. Mandatory mask wearing will be reintroduced.

General retail will be closed, and hospitality venues will only be able to operate takeaway services. Authorities will ask any businesses that has to remain open to actively prevent any in-store browsing.

Source: smh.com.au