By Emily-Rose Toohey and Dominique Tassell
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk yesterday announced new mask rules after a rise in new Covid-19 cases.
Queensland reported 369 new cases of Covid-19 this morning.
The state reported 42 new cases of Covid-19 on Sunday 19 December, 59 new cases on Monday 20 December, 86 new cases on Tuesday 21 December, and 186 new cases on Wednesday 22 December.
Chief Health Officer John Gerrard said yesterday that of the 79 people in hospital only one patient, who had other medical conditions, was experiencing symptoms with 112 people being treated at home.
The mask mandate includes shops, hospitals, aged care, public transport, rideshares, and airports.
Previously, masks were not required at mandatory vaccination sites including cafes, restaurants, cinemas, pubs and clubs.
However, yesterday Premier Palaszczuk announced that masks would be required from today in cinemas and theatres and for those working in hospitality.
“Masks will be mandatory in cinemas and theatres. This is for patrons and for people who work in cinemas and theatres and also for hospitality staff,” the Premier said.
“Hospitality staff go around from table to table. We all don’t have that full protection yet because we don’t have the boosters.
“We have spoken to the industry and to the unions and they understand why this is necessary,” she said.
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said in a press conference on Friday 17 December that it is more important than ever to get vaccinated.
“It’s about reducing the risk of those cases coming to your regional, remote towns,” Ms D’Ath said.
Currently there are 688 total Covid-19 cases in Queensland.
Ms D’Ath said individuals are not required to carry masks at all times, but are strongly encouraged to do so.
“Mask wearing takes very little effort, but is a highly effective tool in our fight against Covid-19,” Ms D’Ath said.
“With thousands of people moving across the state at Christmas, it’s about slowing the spread.”
