Cairns Covid: Case numbers rise as Dr Lee Jones from Yorkeys Medical warns against RAT complacency

A top Cairns doctor has warned of the risk factors that could drive up cases in the Far North as a third wave hits the region in the busiest tourist season.

A TOP Cairns doctor has warned of the risk factors that could drive up cases in the Far North as a third wave hits the region in the busiest tourist season.

Australian Medical Association Queensland Councillor and Yorkeys Medical owner Lee Jones said with kids going back to school there might be an increase in cases that could leave hospitals overwhelmed if people are complacent.

“Covid is definitely not over,” he said.

“It’s a reminder for people who get diagnosed particularly with RAT tests to get online and let everyone know.

Covid-19 testing drive through. Picture: Liam Kidston

“I think the numbers are higher than what's being reported.

Dr Jones said it was important to do the right thing.

“I think we should still be cautious because its not about the individual, it’s about how the hospital system will cope,” he said.

“There’s concerns if numbers continue to grow, we may reach a scenario where people can’t get people seen in hospitals.”

A Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service spokesperson said systems were in place to manage the issue.

“We are monitoring the situation closely and activating our Covid-19 response plans to ensure we have the adequate resources available to respond to an increasing number of cases within the community,” they said.

“We are managing the current rise in Covid-19 cases, and we thank our staff for their ongoing hard work and the community for their support during this time.

Crowds will gather for the Cairns Show this week. Picture: Arun Singh Mann

“As we are in our peak tourism season, we expect cases will continue to increase across our region particularly with mass gatherings such as agricultural shows, rodeos, festivals and concerts.”

From Monday all Australians aged over 70 who test positive, people aged over 50 with two or more risk factors for severe disease and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 30 with two or more factors will have access to antiviral treatments taken as a tablet or capsule.

Dr Jones said those now eligible show be calling the Covid hotline to help them.

But as cases rise some schools have procedures in place.

Cairns Catholic Education Services executive director Bill Dixon said: “Nearly 100 per cent of our staff are vaccinated and at this time of year, classrooms are well ventilated as windows are open.

“We will continue to implement hygiene measures in line with Queensland Health recommendations including mask wearing for those who are close contacts or recovering from Covid.”

Originally published as Cairns Covid: Case numbers rise as Dr Lee Jones from Yorkeys Medical warns against RAT complacency