Opinion - Dr Jeannette Young: "Queensland, COVID-19 is coming."

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29 July 2021

Opinion piece - Please attribute Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young

Queensland, COVID-19 is coming.

It’s unfortunate but almost inevitable that we will see a rise in COVID-19 cases here in coming months.

That’s why I am pleading with Queenslanders to wear masks when they are in public.

It’s more than a public health direction – it’s also one of our most effective weapons against this virus, especially the insidious Delta variant.

Don’t think of it as obeying the law; consider it your part in protecting yourself and others.

When you look at the climbing case numbers in New South Wales and recent outbreaks in Victoria and South Australia, it’s a wonder we only have 42 active cases.

This is certainly a testament to Queenslanders and their unwavering ability to do the right thing when faced with adversity, no matter the disaster.

We’ve done so well so far, thanks to you.

But our toughest test is almost certainly still in front of us.

Right now, we are dealing with our 13th COVID-19 incursion in six weeks.

These clusters have produced 66 cases in total. And of these cases, 35 were infectious in the community for a combined 148 days.

As the lead responder to this pandemic, Queensland Health is doing everything possible to keep the state COVID-free.

But there are so many variables beyond our control. Just when it seems we know almost all there is about this disease, it proves us wrong.

Look at the latest case, who tested positive after three negative tests while quarantining in a hotel for 14 days.

So if this virus is so crafty, what is a simple mask going to do?

For one, every bit of protection helps.

There is an element of luck involved in whether or not someone gets infected, particularly with the Delta variant, which we know has been transmitted during fleeing contact.

If everyone wears a mask in public, the risk of getting COVID-19 is reduced.

The quality of the mask makes a difference.

The best face mask is a single-use surgical mask. If you are unable to get a surgical mask, any paper or cloth masks are fine to use. The most effective cloth masks are made up of at least 3 layers.

While my latest health direction means we have to wear masks in public for another week, circumstances nationally suggest masks may become a way of life for various periods in Queensland’s near future.

I’d like to be the bearer of better news, but the likelihood of further incursions here is high, especially while NSW’s daily case numbers are eclipsing the 200-mark.

Please get vaccinated as soon as you become eligible. Vaccines are safe and effective.

Until we achieve an acceptable vaccination rate, we need to continue with the measures that have served us well these past 18 months – testing, isolating when unwell, washing our hands properly and social distancing.

And I urge you to invest in masks that suit you.

Carry some in your car, strap one to your arm, keep one in your pocket or handbag.

Please, just wear it, for everyone’s sake.