Australia cracks down on gun sales amid outbreak

A third Australian state temporarily banned the sale of guns and ammunition to recreational and sporting shooters on Tuesday, as sales surged due to the new coronavirus.

Victoria's move followed similar restrictions in Queensland and Western Australia last week.

Victorian Police Minister Lisa Neville said federal and state leaders had agreed to curb gun sales at a meeting to coordinate government responses to COVID-19 outbreaks.

Neville said she was concerned that applications to buy guns in Victoria had more than doubled in a week from 1,000 to 2,200 last week.

Professional shooters, security guards and farmers will continue to have access to new firearms and ammunition.

Australia has reported over 4,500 COVID-19 cases and 18 deaths.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and could lead to death.