Almost half – 47 in total – of all confirmed COVID-19 cases in the ACT have recovered and been released from isolation. However, the ACT has recorded two new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, bringing the Territory’s total to 99.
The new confirmed cases are both males, aged in their 60s and 70s. One is linked to overseas travel and the other is a close contact of a previous confirmed case.
There are currently four COVID-19 patients in Canberra hospitals, three of which are in intensive care.
There have been two COVID-19 casualties in the ACT.
One case has been reclassified from “under investigation” to “interstate acquired” following detailed contract tracing by the Communicable Disease Control section of ACT Health. There is still one case under investigation, awaiting further test results before determining the status of this case.
Acting ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Vanessa Johnston said that “interstate acquired” case contracted the virus in New South Wales.
“We liased with NSW Health and he was at a place where a number of other cases have been at that same time,” she said.
Dr Johnston has again reminded Canberrans that they should stay at home as much as possible.
“Complying with the rules on physical distancing and staying at home as much as possible are most certainly helping us flatten the curve,” Dr Johnston said. “Please stay home this Easter long weekend. Do not travel to the coast or interstate.
“Do not hold large gatherings with family and friends – this is prohibited. You may visit family but remember, only two people from outside a household group can visit at any time.
“This can be a difficult time for many people so I encourage Canberrans to find new ways to connect with their loved ones over this Easter period.
“It is still important that we comply with physical distancing rules as well as maintaining our excellent hand and respiratory hygiene practices. These will help lessen the impact on our health system when community transmission does occur here in Canberra.”
The ACT Government has established a new dedicated COVID-19 website for all information about the health and economic response to the pandemic in the ACT.
The ACT Government has also established a new helpline to assist Canberrans through the challenges of COVID-19. The helpline will operate on 02 6207 7244 between 8am and 8pm daily.
People who are concerned and want further information on the virus, can also call the Australian Government’s Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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