Australia to further ease social distancing rules despite outbreak in Victoria

Australia’s second most populous state, Victoria, has seen 10 straight days of double-digit new coronavirus cases and now accounts for about 200 of the country’s 270 active cases, according to Reuters.

However, the country will continue to ease social distancing rules, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Friday, adding that “if Victoria has taught us anything in the last few days it is that the worst thing that could occur right now is the reintroduction of harsh restrictions.”

Authorities are scrambling to contain the virus, embarking on a massive testing program and calling in military support. But Morrison said states and territories “are committed” to ending their coronavirus restrictions.

Australia continues to maintain tough restrictions at its borders. People entering the country are required to self-isolate for two weeks.