Dr Mike Freelander has called on Greater Sydney residents to actively wear masks.
The Federal Member for Macarthur, a practising paediatrician for more than 40 years, is a member of the National Health and Medical Research Council’s Advisory Group, which advises the chief medical officer and national cabinet on Australia’s response to the pandemic.
Dr Freelander said today he was concerned about ongoing outbreaks of Covid-19 in parts of Sydney.
He said the pandemic was far from over and we must remain vigilant.
“Australians have done very well and have been working tremendously hard to adjust to life in the era of Covid-19,” he said.
“However, I am concerned that the pandemic is far from over; we are still seeing traces of Covid-19 present in our testing of sewage, particularly in Western and South Western Sydney.
“The pandemic has hit us hard, but has disproportionately affected some in our community. I do not want to see our numbers get out of control, and force us into a situation in which we see restrictions heighten or return.
“We know masks are an effective tool in limiting the spread of this virus. That is why I am asking everyone to wear a mask, when in public.
“I am asking NSW residents to wear a mask when in public from today, to protect themselves and the health of others.
“This is a small additional step that we can all take to try and get on top of this virus and ensure restrictions do not increase.”
Please listen to the Doctor, all the advice we are given, like washing our hands and social distancing really matters, so does wearing a mask in enclosed spaces like shops. It means that people with compromised immune systems and the elderly are a little safer.