Released 30/01/2020
The ACT Government is advising that anyone who has been to Hubei Province in China will need to stay at home for 14 days after leaving Hubei.
This is consistent with the up-dated national advice and precautionary approach for all people who have returned from travelling in the Hubei Province in response to the international outbreak of novel coronavirus.
ACT Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerryn Coleman says at this time in the ACT there are no cases of novel coronavirus confirmed and only a handful of people who have been investigated, with all returning negative test results.
“We wish to reassure the Canberra community that while this situation is evolving there is no need for alarm,” Dr Coleman said.
“All jurisdictions, including the ACT, are meeting regularly and updating intelligence as the situation develops, so the best and most up to date medical advice can be provided to the community.
“We are working in partnership with the Federal Health Department and our jurisdictional health colleagues to monitor and response to the situation. We are also working closely with our public hospitals, general practitioners and other primary health care providers to ensure health workers have the information they need to identify cases and put appropriate infection control measures in place should the need arise.
“What is really important is for people who have returned from Hubei Province to be aware of influenza-like symptoms and should these symptoms occur, see a doctor, remembering to call ahead so they can prepare for the visit.
“We would also urge the community to keep up to date on the latest information on novel coronavirus in the ACT through the ACT Health website, where there are a series of factsheets with advice for schools and childcare centres and parents. ” Dr Coleman said.
Further information on the ACT Health response to novel coronavirus, including the latest health advice and information for schools and parents head to: https://www.health.act.gov.au/public-health-alert/information-about-novel-coronavirus
MEDIA DOORSTOP:
TIME: | 12.45pm TODAY (Thursday 30 January 2020) |
WHERE: | Health Protection Service, 25 Mulley Road Holder |
SPOKESPERSON: | Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerryn Coleman |
- Statement ends -
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