Victorian COVID-19 cluster grows to 26 cases, as lockdown looms

By Charmayne Allison

May 27, 2021

Victoria has recorded 12 new cases of COVID-19 overnight, as the state holds its breath for a lockdown announcement expected today.

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One of the 12 community cases recorded in the 24 hours to midnight was announced at yesterday's press conference.

These new cases bring the total number of cases in Melbourne's growing COVID-19 outbreak to 26.

This comes as ABC reports the Victorian government will today announce a lockdown to tackle the cluster, which senior government sources say could begin at midnight tonight and last at least seven days.

It's likely the lockdown will be for the whole state, with authorities in meetings this morning to decide details.

The number of exposure sites has grown to more than 70, including the Docklands stadium and MCG, as well as locations in Cohuna, Bendigo and Axedale.

Northern Territory Health Minister Natasha Fyles announced today greater Melbourne and Bendigo were now hotspots.

This means anyone who has been to these areas in the past two week to May 12 must isolate, get a COVID-19 test and remain in isolation until they receive a negative result.

More to come.

By Charmayne Allison

Senior Journalist