From the BBC:
“Melbourne: Celebrations as
city exits sixth lockdown”
The Australian city of Melbourne
has emerged from its sixth lockdown since the pandemic began. More than five
million people have spent more than 260 days under restrictions, with Melbourne
dubbed the "world's most locked down city". This most recent
lockdown, which has been in place since August, came to an end after 70% of the
city's population received both vaccine doses. Images from the city's reopening
show people celebrating in bars. Bar owner George Leveque said he had opened
his for the lifting of restrictions. "It's like New Year's Eve, without
the fireworks. It's exciting, but there are a bit of nerves too," he told
the Age. Some people on social media reported the cheers of celebration when
the lockdown ended:
However, the city's new found
freedoms are only applicable to those who have been vaccinated. Victorian
Premier Daniel Andrews said non-vaccinated people would not be able to enjoy
the lifting of restrictions until next year. On Twitter, he thanked those who
had been vaccinated. "Because of everything Victorians have done, tomorrow
we can start getting back to the things we love," he wrote. "Thank
you Victoria - I'm so proud." Even for those who have had the jab, there
are still restrictions. Residents are not allowed to leave the city and shops
will remain closed until the number of people who have received a second dose
reaches 80%. Bars and cafes can only have 20 fully vaccinated customers indoors
and 50 outdoors. Hairdressers can only have five customers in their premises at
the same time. Authorities in Victoria state have warned that the easing of
lockdown could lead to "intense pressure" in hospitals. According to
ABC News, the government is predicting cases in the state to peak at about
4,000 a day in December. Australia has recorded about 150,000 cases and 1,500
deaths since the pandemic began.
^ I don’t know how people in
Australia and New Zealand survive being under lockdown for so long. ^
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