Family of man who drowned at Palm Beach tested for coronavirus

Family members of a man who drowned on the Gold Coast this week are in quarantine at Gold Coast University Hospital after being tested for coronavirus.

FAMILY members of a Chinese man who drowned at Palm Beach this week are being tested for coronavirus.

It is understood the man had gone for a swim at the beach and drowned on Tuesday, January 28.

The revelation comes after the man’s family went to the Palm Beach police station to speak to officers who are preparing a report for the Coroner.

A family member is understood to have told the officers she was feeling unwell, suffering from flu-like symptoms.

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Passengers wear face masks to protect against the spread of the Coronavirus as they arrive on a flight from Asia at Los Angeles International Airport this week. Picture: AFP.

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It is believed the woman was travelling in a group of five, including the deceased man.

The woman and the group she was travelling with have since been quarantined at the Gold Coast University Hospital.

The Bulletin understands the four are now being tested for coronavirus.

It is unknown if the dead man will be tested for the virus in a post mortem.

It is understood the group had been on the Coast for about a week, but it’s unknown how they arrived or where they had been across the city.

The Bulletin understands the man and the rest of the group had not come from the Wuhan area.

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While not commenting on this case specifically, Queensland Health issued a statement from Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young.

“Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service is well prepared to respond to the current international threat of novel coronavirus,” Dr Young said.

“The HHS is working closely with Queensland Health and the rest of the state. We have responded to health emergencies in the past, and we will do it again.

“We will continue to keep the local community updated on confirmed cases.”

Anyone who has developed a fever or respiratory symptoms within 14 days of travel to China should see their GP immediately. People are urged to call ahead and advise the clinic of their symptoms so precautions can be taken.

More information to come.