A positive case of the Omicron COVID-19 strain has been detected in Melbourne. Patrons of popular gay venues in Melbourne have now been sent into lockdown again. A positive case has been confirmed after visiting both Sircuit Bar in Fitzroy and The Peel Hotel. It is believed over 700 people may have been exposed to the virus.
On Wednesday morning the Melbourne Department of Health confirmed a positive Omicron case within the community.
Authorities confirmed the case was active on Friday the 10th of December.
Patrons who visited the following venues/times have been advised to quarantine.
Sircuit Bar, Fitzroy on Friday, December 10, between 9 pm and midnight.
The Peel Hotel, Collingwood on Friday, December 10, between 11.30 pm and 3 am.
Hundreds required to quarantine after potential exposure
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Melbourne government advised those exposed to the Omicron case to quarantine.
“If you are fully vaccinated, you must quarantine for seven days.”
“If you are not fully vaccinated, you must quarantine for 14 days.”
The statement continued.
“You are required to get a standard PCR test as soon as possible and continue to quarantine at home. If you have tested negative but later develop symptoms, please get tested without delay.”
“You must have another PCR test on the day before your quarantine period is due to end and receive a negative result before your quarantine can be complete.”
Venue responds to Omicron exposure
Tom McFeely, owner of The Peel Hotel spoke to the media following the directives.
Speaking to 3AW he said he had received “contradictory advice.”
After months of extended lockdowns in Melbourne, Mr McFeely expressed frustration at the situation.
“Two weeks ago I opened a venue, began to get a bit of hope back…now this happens.
“We’re hearing all different sorts of numbers. People are confused about the times.”
“I just feel as though there isn’t enough information being given to us – it really doesn’t help at all.”
Melbourne Department of Health is continuing to monitor the situation and making contact with other potential casual contacts.
Source: qnews.com.au
