7 January 2021
Genome sequencing has confirmed the Queensland case of COVID-19 has the UK variant.
Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Dr Jeanette Young has enforced restrictions to vulnerable facilities in Greater Brisbane as a precaution, while contact tracing efforts continue.
“We’re taking a very cautious approach with this case, now that we know for sure this person has the UK variant of the virus,” she said.
“Evidence shows that this variant is 70 percent more infectious than other strains.
“This is why I’m taking this firm action swiftly, to protect our most vulnerable facilities.”
Dr Young said visitors will be restricted to aged care, hospitals, disability services and corrections facilities, and these restrictions are imposed immediately.
“These restrictions apply to the Metro North, Metro South and West Moreton Hospital and Health Service regions,” she said.
“And as always, anyone with any symptoms should come forward for testing immediately and isolate until they receive the results – especially anyone in Brisbane.
“The Eight Mile Plains Community Health Centre testing clinic will remain open right through the night, so please consider that location for testing tonight.”
The Eight Mile Plains Community Health Centre is located at 51 McKechnie Drive, Eight Miles Plains.
Anyone who has been to the following locations – regardless of whether they have symptoms or not – should get tested and isolate until they receive their result.
Critically, even if a negative test result is received, please continue to monitor for symptoms and get retested if necessary.
Location | Time period |
Train from Altandi station to Roma Street station | Saturday 2 January, 7am |
Train from Central Station to Altandi station | Saturday 2 January, 4pm |
Woolworths Calamvale North | Sunday 3 January, 11am-12noon |
Coles Sunnybank Hills | Tuesday 5 January, 7.30-8am |
Nextra Newsagent, Sunnybank Hills Shopping Town | Tuesday 5 January, 8-8.15am |
ENDS