Ruby Princess passenger breaks week-long COVID-free streak

The one new case of COVID-19 reported in Tasmania over the past week was a Ruby Princess passenger, the state’s health authority says. There were no new cases on Saturday.

THE singular new case of coronavirus diagnosed in Tasmania over the past week was a Ruby Princess traveller, the state’s health authority has revealed.

On Friday night, the state broke its seven-day streak with no newly-confirmed infections with news a man in his 70s from northern Tasmania had returned a positive test.

Contact tracing kicked off straight away, public health director Mark Veitch said.

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On Saturday afternoon, Dr Veitch confirmed investigators had discovered the man was also a close contact of a previously confirmed case and was in quarantine when he was most likely to have been infectious.

Director of Public Health Dr Mark Veitch confirms a recent Tasmanian case of COVID-19. Picture: ZAK SIMMONDS

“Recent close contacts have been quarantined as a matter of caution,” he said.

As of 6pm on Saturday, there have been no new cases of coronavirus confirmed in the State.

Tasmania’s infection tally remains at 226.

Anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms is asked to arrange testing through their GP or the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738.

From Monday, another phase of eased restrictions in Tasmanian will kick in.

■ Gatherings increase to 10 people (except visitors to households for any purpose, which is capped at 5 people) for indoor and outdoor, including real estate, small religious gatherings and weddings. Funerals can extend to 30 people outdoors.

■ Restaurants and cafes in all settings (including restaurants in pubs, clubs, hotels and RSLs) can open and seat up to 10 people at a time. Seated table service only with social distancing.

■ Border controls will remain in place, except Tasmanian residents can quarantine in their principal residence if it is suitable.

■ Community and local government facilities and libraries will be allowed to open for up to 10 people.

■ Park exercise equipment and playgrounds, pools and boot camps open for up to 10 people.