Premier forced into isolation after family member tests positive to Covid

The Premier was alerted to the positive test ‘a short time ago’ and rushed home from work to quarantine.

Peter Gutwein has been forced to isolate at home after he was deemed a close Covid-19 contact.

The Tasmanian Premier announced on Wednesday afternoon a family member of his tested positive to the virus.

Despite producing a negative Rapid Antigen Test, he is deemed a close contact and will need to isolate for seven days.

Under the states current close contact rules, anyone who spent at least 15 minutes of face-to-face contact with a confirmed case is considered a close contact.

They are required to quarantine and get tested on days one and six and if symptoms present while in isolation.

Premier Peter Gutwein has been forced into isolation after a family member tested positive to Covid-19 on Wednesday. Photo: Linda Higginson

“A short time ago I was informed that a family member has tested positive to COVID-19,” Mr Gutwein said.

“I have just confirmed with Public Health that in line with current public health requirements, I have been classified as a close contact.

“I have taken a RAT which was negative, and I am now returning home to isolate for seven days, along with other members of my family.

“I will continue to work from home and perform the duties of Premier.”

Deputy Premier Jeremy Rockliff will stand in place of Mr Gutwein for any duties that need to be done in person while the Premier works from home.

Originally published as Premier forced into isolation after family member tests positive to Covid