“It is likely that mobile testing vans will be visiting both Mitchell and the Kinglake Ranges soon,” Yan Yean MLA Danielle Green said on social media at the weekend.

“Locally Whittlesea’s active cases have increased steadily this month and Nillumbik’s cases have today (Saturday) gone from one to two,” Ms Green said.

“Mitchell’s active numbers and increases are extremely concerning given it had no cases for over month and now has gained 12 new cases in under a fortnight.

“The [Mitchell] Shire has only 80 per cent of Nillumbik’s population but six times the number of active cases.

“Compared to Whittlesea which is 4½ times Mitchell’s population it is deeply concerning that Mitchell has a much higher proportion of cases to population.”

Ms Green said a face mask has now become a crucial part of her wardrobe.
“If you live in Melbourne or Mitchell Shire and are aged 18 years or older, it is now recommended that you wear a face mask when you leave home if it is going to be difficult for you to maintain 1.5 metres of distance between yourself and other people. “Face masks are not a substitute for physical distancing.”

Ms Green welcome the establishment of a testing station at Mernda last Saturday (July 11). The station is at Woodland Waters Reserve.

“Stay safe by washing your hands regularly, coughing and sneezing into your elbow, keeping at least 1.5 metres from others and staying home if you feel unwell.

“If you have symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19) get tested,” Ms Green said.

“Globally, the number of COVID-19 infections has surpassed 12.4 million, more than double the number of severe influenza cases recorded annually, with the death toll almost 560,000 since January.

“Questions? Call the Department of Health and Human Services Coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398.

“Remember, testing is available to any member of the public experiencing COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and loss of sense of smell.

“Even if you only have mild symptoms, you should go get tested.

“The test takes around a minute and involves a swab from the back of your throat and nose, or in some circumstances a simpler saliva test.

“You need to bring at least one form of photo ID with you – for example, your Medicare card, driver’s licence or student ID.

“After being tested (if you have symptoms or have been in contact with a confirmed case), you should return home immediately and remain in self-isolation until you receive your test result – usually within 2-3 days.”

Ms Green said more information on testing and where to get tested can be found on the DHHS website link https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/getting-tested-coronavirus-covid-19#where-to-get-tested