22 March 2020
Queensland has 38 new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) raising the state total to 259.
The patients consist of 22 males and 16 females between the ages of 19 and 76.
| Hospital and Health Service | New confirmed cases |
|---|---|
| Metro North | 16 |
| Metro South | 6 |
| Gold Coast | 4 |
| West Moreton | 4 |
| Sunshine Coast | 2 |
| Darling Downs | 1 |
| Wide Bay | 1 |
| Overseas/interstate | 4 |
| Total | 38 |
Contact tracing is underway for these new cases. Queensland Health will notify the community if any other public health alerts are required.
The majority of cases are from patients who have travelled overseas, or have had direct contact with a confirmed case who had travelled overseas.
The number of confirmed cases we see each day is expected to vary as we continue to respond to the COVID-19 situation across the state.
We want everyone to know they can play their part to protect themselves and the more vulnerable in our community.
Following the recommended health advice from us and our federal counterparts is critical in beating the spread of COVID-19. That’s why Queensland Police and Liquor Licensing Officers have been appointed under Chapter 8 of the Public Health Act, 2005, designed to allow Queensland to best respond to public health emergencies.
These officers will move to full enforcement of the Queensland Chief Health Officer’s public health directions from Monday, 23 March 2020. They can currently provide warnings to individuals who are not complying with these vital safeguards.
As always, you can do your bit at home.
Make sure you are practicing good hygiene and staying home if you’re sick. Washing your hands properly and often is the gold standard of health advice that can help prevent viruses from entering your body.
Queensland Health is urging anyone who has been overseas in the last 14 days and has a fever or any respiratory symptoms to see a doctor immediately. Please call ahead to the GP surgery and let them know your symptoms and travel history, this will help them prepare for your arrival.
The most up-to-date reliable information is available on the Queensland Health website at www.health.qld.gov.au/coronavirus
The current CHO public health directions can be found here: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/system-governance/legislation/cho-public-health-directions-under-expanded-public-health-act-powers
ENDS