COVID-19 case detected in Hinchinbrook, Mayor Ramon Jayo confirms
A Hinchinbrook Shire resident has tested positive to COVID-19, Queensland Health confirmed.
Townsville
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A Hinchinbrook Shire resident has tested positive to COVID-19, Queensland Health confirmed.
It is understood to be the second case of the virus detected in regional North Queensland.
The resident recently returned from overseas and according to Queensland Health had complied with strict self-isolating requirements since returning and is considered a low risk to the Hinchinbrook community.
Hinchinbrook Disaster Management Chairman Ramon Jayo said the community needed to remain calm.
“I have been reassured by Queensland Health that the risk to our community is low and that is reassuring,” he said.
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Cr Jayo reminded people needed to be vigilant and follow self distancing and personal hygiene advice.
“The fact is that we have been told to stay home unless absolutely essential. What is essential has been clearly defined. Let’s do what we are being told to do,” he said.
“It is clear that this virus spreads through human contact. We can slow the spread by ensuring that minimal human contact occurs. That is why we are being told to stay home and to maintain the proper social distancing and proper hygiene when we must go out.”
Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto said the person with COVID-19 was at home and is being given the medical support.
“It’s important to add this positive case has not been the result of a community transfer,” Mr Dametto said.
“At this time, despite our best efforts, we are all reminded that our community is not immune to the dangers of this global pandemic.
“As this threat materialises for many, I ask people to remain calm and rational but I must reinforce the facts – we can contain this virus if we all work together.
“As disruptive to our daily lives and recreational enjoyment this may be, these tough measures have been put in place to help slow the spread of this potentially deadly virus through our vulnerable community.”
To date, there have been 22 confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in the Townsville Hospital and Health Service area.
Originally published as COVID-19 case detected in Hinchinbrook, Mayor Ramon Jayo confirms