By Emily-Rose Toohey
From 1am tomorrow morning, masks are mandatory across Queensland after 20 new Covid-19 cases have been reported.
Five were located in Brisbane’s north, eight in Brisbane’s south, one in West Moreton, two on the Sunshine Coast, two on the Gold Coast, and two in Cairns.
The mask mandate includes shops, hospitals, aged care, public transport, ride shares, and airports.
However, masks are not required at mandatory vaccination sites including cafes, restaurants, cinemas, pubs and clubs.
Nonetheless, Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said she recommends that patrons wear masks at these venues.
“We want to keep communities safe and this is a responsible and reasonable approach to achieve that ahead of the festive season,” Ms D’Ath said.
She said in a press conference this morning 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.
“We will review the mask mandate rules when we hit 90 per cent.”
Of the 20 new cases, four were acquired overseas and 16 were acquired through the community.
There are now 82 active 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.”
Chief Health Officer John Gerrard said the five confirmed Omicron cases in the state are linked to the Newcastle cluster.
“It’s about protecting yourself and others,” Mr Gerrard said.
