Daniel Andrews maintains no mask mandate despite tough winter ahead

The Premier has responded to a push for mandatory masks indoors as Covid cases rise across Victoria, with 107 deaths over the past week.

Premier Daniel Andrews puts on his mask after speaking to the media during a press conference in February 2021. Picture: Daniel Pockett

Premier Daniel Andrews says there are no plans to reintroduce masks in Victoria, as experts warn of a tough winter ahead.

It comes after the Australian Medical Association warned Victorians should be voluntarily wearing masks in indoor settings, such as the supermarket.

The state announced 13,694 new Covid cases on Tuesday, along with 20 deaths.

Over the past week, 107 Victorians have died with Covid.

Premier Daniel Andrews says changes to mask rules would be made by the Health Minister. Picture: Daniel Pockett

Mr Andrews said any potential reintroduction of restrictions was a matter for Health Minister Martin Foley.

“As you know, the law of our state vests those power with the Health Minister. I don’t believe he has advice to do that,” he said.

“It’s probably best to refer those matters to him.

“He consults with a group of people but it’s not approved by me or the Cabinet.

“They are, rightly, the important responsibilities that Martin Foley has.”

Grade 5 student Olivia wearing a face mask before the mandate was scrapped. Picture: Mark Stewart

Mask mandates were scrapped in primary schools, retailer and hospitality on April 22.

Mask rules on public transport and airports remain unchanged, along with mandatory face coverings in sensitive health, aged care and justice settings.

Mr Andrews urged Victorians to get a flu shot ahead of winter.

“Winter is always challenging in our health system — even without Covid,” he said.

This comes as multiple “flurona” cases emerge in Victoria.

Masks are still mandatory on public transport. Picture: David Crosling

A Department of Health spokesman urged Victorians to get their flu shot and Covid vaccine.

“By getting vaccinated against both highly contagious infections, you’re not only protecting yourself and those around you, but you’re also helping to ease pressure on our health system,” the spokesperson said.

“Vaccinations play a critical role in protecting people and reducing the severity of illness and we’re urging all Victorians to get their jabs, especially as we’re heading into cooler months.”

Victorians continue to remain confused about the differences between the two viruses as both have similar symptoms including a fever, sore throat, cough, chills and body aches.

Although the influenza season is expected to hit harder this year than previous years, according to the Department of Health, Covid is more severe.

Globally, about 2 to 4 per cent of people reported to be infected with coronavirus have died.

In comparison, less than 1 per cent of those infected die of the flu.

“Many people have built up immunity to seasonal flu strains, but Covid is a new virus and no one has developed immunity before being exposed, making everyone susceptible to infection,” a spokesperson said.

“Research is under way to investigate how long immunity lasts for people who have recovered from Covid symptoms.”