FRANKSTON Police Station was closed for deep cleaning last week after at least one police officer tested positive for COVID-19.
A statement released by Victoria Police on 13 July read that “contact tracing is currently underway to establish how many Victoria Police officers had contact with the infected officer during the past 14 days.”
“It is expected that several officers will go into self-isolation and be tested as a precaution as per health advice,” the statement read. “Enquiries are being made to determine whether any members of the public had contact with the officer while they were contagious and may need to be tested. Victoria Police’s priority first and foremost is to ensure the safety of its people and the community.”
The Herald Sun reported last week that four officers at the station have now tested positive, and that more than 60 have been stood down from duty.
Coronavirus cases statewide have been rapidly rising this month. A total of 363 new cases were recorded in Victoria on Sunday 19 June, making for a total of 5696 since the start of the pandemic.
There are nine active coronavirus cases among Frankston residents according to the Department of Health and Human Services. There have been 51 recorded cases in the area since the start of the pandemic.
The only reasons for leaving home under the current lockdown restrictions are to shop for food and supplies, outdoor exercise and recreation, medical care and caregiving, or to study or work. From this week, anyone leaving their house for those reasons will also be made to wear a face covering. A $200 fine may apply to anyone who does not comply.