Released 12/03/2020
The ACT Health Directorate is today advising the Canberra community that the first case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in the ACT.
The individual is a male in his 30’s. The ACT Health Directorate is following up close contacts of the confirmed case and is taking appropriate public health action in line with national guidelines.
The individual became unwell on Tuesday 10 March and presented to the Weston Creek Walk-in Centre on Wednesday 11 March, with results confirming a positive result on Thursday 12 March.
ACT Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerryn Coleman says the community can be reassured that there is no risk to the general community from this case.
“As this is the first case of novel coronavirus that has been confirmed in the ACT, we understand that there will be a heightened level of anxiety in the community,” Dr Coleman said.
“We want to commend the actions of this individual as he has followed the advice that we have been providing.
“The health advice has not changed. The best way people can protect themselves and the community is to practice good hand and general hygiene.
“If you have travelled to any country outside of Australia in the last 14 days, or have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, and develop respiratory symptoms, you should isolate at home and make an appointment to see your GP immediately. You should call ahead and advise the clinic of your symptoms so precautions can be taken.
“People who are concerned and want further information on the virus, can also call the Australian Government’s Coronavirus Health Information Line on1800 020 080. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
Symptoms of novel coronavirus include:
- fever
- flu-like symptoms such as coughing, sore throat or headaches; or
- difficulty breathing.
For general health information about novel coronavirus, including symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, visit the ACT Heath website: www.health.act.gov.au
Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister:
“I regret to inform Canberrans that we have our first case of COVID-19 in the ACT.
“We were expecting that COVID-19 would reach the ACT. Following this confirmation, every state and territory in Australia has at least one confirmed case, and we are expecting more in the coming weeks.
“This is not cause for alarm. The processes that have been put in place have, in this instance, worked as expected.”
Quotes attributable to ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith:
“It is pleasing to know that this person did everything right and our processes worked as they are supposed to.
“I can assure Canberrans that our Chief Health Officer, public and private hospitals and primary healthcare sector have been working for weeks to ensure we have plans in place to respond to this situation as it evolves.
“Canberrans can help by staying calm, following the advice of our health officials, practicing good general and hand hygiene and staying home from work and public events if they are sick.”
- Statement ends -
ACT Health Directorate | Media Releases
«ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases