Australia has officially closed its borders for non-residents and other foreigners from Friday onward. Australians and their direct family members will still be allowed into the country but must self-quarantine for 14 days.
As concerns for the pandemic grows, Australians have been urged to maintain social distance and practice safe hygiene. Social distancing means keeping a metre-and-a-half away from others, good hand hygiene, and staying home from work or the general community if you are unwell. People have also been urged to reconsider non-essential domestic travel.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Friday announced stricter rules for indoor gatherings that will affect places like restaurants, pubs and cinemas. As of 21st March, 2020, Australia reported 998 active cases with 53 closed cases. Of the 53 closed cases, 46 have recovered and have been discharged, while the remaining 7 passed away owing to the disease.
Globally there are 276,472 cases as of 21st March, 2020.
