Victoria has recorded 18,167 new Covid cases as the state’s health system braces for a rise in hospitalisations in the coming weeks.
The state recorded 20 deaths and 1096 hospitalisations on Friday.
Of those in hospital, 121 were in intensive care, with 34 on a ventilator.
It comes amid concerns the state’s health system has reached breaking point due to a rise in Covid cases.
Amid claims critical cancer and heart surgeries were being postponed within the state’s major hoxjmtzywspitals, Premier Daniel Andrews this week acknowledged those affected.
“This is not easy on those patients who are having to wait,” Mr Andrews told reporters.
“We’ve decided to prioritise the sickest patients. It’s a tough decision to make, but it’s there for a reason.
“I’m not minimising the discomfort and challenges involved for patients who can’t get what they need right now, but once we get past this peak, we’ll do everything we can to get everyone the care they need.”
A major vaccination blitz starting on Friday in the state is encouraging tens of thousands of people line up for a jab.
The blitz, introduced in a bid to lower hospitalisation rates, will run through to Monday in a targeted campaign.
There will be an extra 60,000 appointments made available for eligible Victorians.
It comes after the state again slashed the time needed between boosters, with people now able to be vaccinated a mere three months after their last dose.
