Chinese sailor tested for COVID-19 in Townsville

A Chinese seaman has been brought ashore to Townsville after suffering an injury aboard a ship, and will be tested for coronavirus.

A Chinese seaman has been brought ashore to Townsville after suffering an injury, and will be tested for coronavirus.

Townsville Police district duty officer Senior Sergeant Joe Matheson said the man severely injured a finger while aboard a ship and was brought ashore yesterday afternoon.

“He’s being treated as a potential COVID-19 (carrier),” he said.

Sen-Sgt Matheson said the man was not showing any coronavirus symptoms but would be tested. Coronavirus symptoms include symptoms include coughing, fever, tiredness and in extreme cases difficulty breathing.

MORE: What we know about North Qld’s 72 COVID-19 cases

Sen-Sgt Matheson said the man would be treated for his injury at Townsville University Hospital.

There have been more than 20 confirmed coronavirus cases reported in the Townsville region. On Monday, the first confirmed case in the Burdekin was reported.

Maritime Safety Queensland general manager Angus Mitchell said the ship UNI Challenge berthed at Townsville berth Number 8 after completing 14 days quarantine since its last port. None of the crew reported any illness.

Mr Mitchell confirmed the seaman suffered a hand injury when out at sea.

“Maritime Safety Queensland worked with local authorities and Queensland Health to arrange for the crew member to receive medical treatment ashore,” he said.

“Quarantine measures included COVID-19 testing as per current protocols.”

There is a 14-day quarantine period for all passengers and crew arriving on vessels, and a rigorous health protocol questionnaire including a requirement to report the state of health of all on board two hours before entry.

Originally published as Chinese sailor tested for COVID-19 in Townsville