Federal Health Minister has responded to the first confirmed case of community transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Australia.
In a media release, the Federal Health Minister highlighted the case showed that Australia was not immune to the risk of COVID-19, which has spread globally since its initial emergence in China.
“In light of the international situation, more cases of COVID-19 are highly likely to emerge in Australia,” the Federal Health Minister said.
The Federal Health Minister said those who have virus symptoms should practice social distancing, particularly if they have been the heavily impacted areas of Iran, South Korea, Italy or China.
“If you do get symptoms, such as fever and cough, and are a returned traveller or potential contact with someone who may have COVID-19, please isolate yourself and seek medical advice. This is how we can best reduce the spread.”
He also stressed health and aged care workers who have visited these locations should avoid work for 14 days.
Despite the concerns, the Federal Health Minister urged Australians to continue their everyday business and remember to maintain good personal hygiene practices.
“The message for Australians is that it is perfectly safe to go about their daily business and do exactly what they would normally do,” the Federal Health Minister said.
You can read the full release on the Minister’s website.
