The medical peak body’s President Dr Tony Bartone has warned the next two weeks will be “critical” in ensuring the spikes in new coronavirus cases in Melbourne hotspots doesn’t spread to other areas.

The AMA wants the States and Territories to pause their easing of restrictions, with Dr Bartone saying the cases in Victoria are a stark reminder that the battle against COVID is far from over, and that Australians all need to learn to live with the virus in the community.

“We all want to get our lives back to normal, but it has to be a gradual and cautious process – and it must be with strict adherence to the medical advice and public health guidelines,” he said.

“The disappointing reality is that the problems in Melbourne’s hotspots are directly linked to failures to follow established and successful public health guidelines.”

“Against the expert medical advice, we have seen a range of failures relating to family and social events not following physical distance requirements, numerous quarantine breaches, and the irresponsible actions from elite sportsmen.”

“Australians should not rush back to pre-COVID ways. We have to do more to protect ourselves and each other. The virus will be with us for many months. We must all continue to follow physical distance and hygiene protections, and not become complacent.”

Victoria recorded 127 new coronavirus cases yesterday, its highest daily total during the pandemic, with 645 cases now active across the state.