Four people living in the City of Whittlesea – including a preschool-aged child – have tested positive for COVID-19.
Health Minister Martin Foley this afternoon confirmed that two men, a woman and a child who are all related and live in two households had returned positive tests. He would not reveal which suburbs they live in.
It is not known how they contracted coronavirus, with no links to previous exposure sites at this stage, Mr Foley said.
“We know there will be more information come to light [through interviews],” he said.
“Given the proximity of the [positive Wollert] man in early May… we don’t rule out the prospect that [the cases] link up.
“In terms of this gentleman’s infectious period… they don’t appear to cross over in terms of incubation periods.
“Perhaps there’s a missing link.”
The health department has identified two tier one exposure sites so far: Jump Swim School at Bundoora on May 21 between 8.55am and 10.15am and Highpoint Shopping Centre on May 20 between 5-8pm.
Anyone who visited Jump Swim School at that time must get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days.
Anyone who visited Highpoint during the exposure period must get tested and isolate until further notice.
Chief health officer Brett Sutton said: “We have to ready ourselves for any other positives.
“There is the possibility that even casual contacts could become positive as well.
“There will be further exposure sites, I’m sure.”
“I don’t think it’s a special feature of the northern suburbs, it could happen anywhere.”
“We should never be complacent.”
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild, is urged to get tested immediately.
The health department has extended testing times at all sites until 8pm.
Victorians are also urged to use QR codes to check in to venues to allow for more efficient contact tracing.
Details: www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/where-get-tested-covid-19
