An update to this story has been posted on 5 May.
The ACT has recorded one new case of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours with a female in her 20s, who acquired the infection overseas, the latest to test positive.
ACT Deputy Chief Health Officer Dr Vanessa Johnston said this most recent case developed COVID-19 while overseas some time ago.
“This individual was symptomatic while overseas and then spent 14 days in self-quarantine after returning home. They were not tested during their self-quarantine period because their symptoms had resolved prior to their return to Australia,” Dr Johnston said.
“Recently, this individual presented for testing after developing new cold-like symptoms and returned a low positive result. Further testing has also confirmed the presence of a common respiratory virus.
“Our investigation identified that this person has not been infectious since before finishing their self-quarantine.”
ACT Health does not believe this individual has been infectious since returning to the broader community but has identified a small number of close contacts as a highly precautionary measure.
Dr Johnston reminded Canberrans to continue practising physical distancing and excellent hygiene, and to get tested if they have any symptoms.
“While we are in a very good position here in the ACT, this is a good reminder that we will continue to see more cases,” Dr Johnston said.
“That’s why it’s important that we all act cautiously, even as restrictions start to be eased. That means keeping a good distance between yourselves and others while you are out and about, and also making sure you wash your hands regularly.”
Dr Johnston also encouraged anybody with symptoms to go and get tested.
“The more people that get tested, the better chance we have of identifying any undetected cases that might be in our community.”
The latest case brings the ACT’s total to 107. A total of 103 cases have recovered from COVID-19 and have been released from self-isolation. There are no COVID-19 patients in Canberra hospitals. The ACT has recorded three deaths.
The number of negative tests in the ACT is now 9,521.
For more information, visit the ACT Government’s COVID-19 website.
For more stories on the subject:
Be aware of eased restrictions as ACT again records no new COVID-19 cases
