Carnival Cruises reintroduces masks for passengers onboard; Three men found guilty of downing MH17 in 2014; Australian academic Sean Turnell released in Myanmar; Recycling yard ablaze in Melbourne; Grocery delivery service Voly announces its closure in Australia

Masks will once again be mandatory in hospitals across New South Wales as the state goes through an increase in COVID-19 cases.

NSW Health today updated its COVID-19 risk rating to amber, meaning masks will be required in hospitals and visitor numbers will be monitored.

“Implementing these changes now means that our staff and the community can look forward to the festive season with greater confidence,” NSW Health deputy secretary Deb Willcox said.

“Family and loved ones can still spend time with patients, however, we do ask people to please limit the number of visitors coming to see patients at any one time.

“Visitors, as well as staff, will now also need to wear a mask in all areas of a hospital or health service, not just in the patient areas, as was previously the requirement.”