South Australian authorities remain determined to avoid a COVID-19 lockdown across the state, with a number of local restrictions now in place amid increasing infections in other jurisdictions.
Premier Steven Marshall and Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier have urged people to get tested and vaccinated to avoid the need for harsher measures.
“It is a dangerous situation with this Delta variant. We have to take the preventive stance,” said Marshall on Tuesday.
“We want to avoid a lockdown in South Australia.
“We put in some restrictions that we believe will provide additional protection.
“We think that taking proactive steps will keep a lockdown in check.”
Professor Spurrier said while two new coronavirus cases were reported on Tuesday, both returned travelers were in hotel quarantine.
She said SA has not yet registered any locally acquired cases related to any of the outbreaks in other states and territories.
Prof. Spurrier repeated the prime minister to avoid a lockdown but warned that such a move would always depend on the prevailing situation, including the nature and location of new infections and the early detection of an outbreak.
“I don’t want a lockdown here. It’s harmful, it’s harmful to our economy, it’s terrible for the people of our state, “she said.
Restrictions in South Africa include the mandatory use of masks in high-risk environments, including elderly care facilities and hospitals. They are also highly recommended on public transport.
In cafes, pubs, restaurants, and other licensed venues, a new density regulation of one person per square foot is enforced, while private gatherings, including weddings and funerals, are limited to 150 people.
People who eat and drink indoors must be seated.
Mr Marshall said it was hoped that the new measures would only be needed for a week.
It follows SA’s move on Sunday to close its Queensland, WA, NT and ACT border after previously banning travelers from NSW.
Australian Associated Press