March 19, 2020
Queensland Health announced on Thursday there were 50 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, raising the State’s total to 144.
The new cases consist of 25 men and 25 women, aged between one and 79.
One of the new cases is in the Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service region – which includes the South Burnett but also stretches south to Stanthorpe, north to Taroom and west to the Balonne region.
The exact location of the patient has not been released.
| Hospital and Health Service | New confirmed cases |
| Darling Downs | 1 |
| Gold Coast | 12 |
| Metro North | 17 |
| Metro South | 15 |
| Sunshine Coast | 2 |
| Townsville | 1 |
| West Moreton | 1 |
| International (managed by Cairns HHS) | 1 |
| Total | 50 |
A Queensland Health spokesperson said contact tracing was under way for the 50 new cases.
It will notify the community if any other public health alerts are required.
“The majority of cases remain to be from patients who have travelled overseas, or have had direct contact with a confirmed case who had travelled overseas,” the spokesperson said.
“The number of confirmed cases we see each day is expected to vary as we continue to respond to the COVID-19 situation across the State.
“Today’s total is a significant increase in comparison to what we have seen so far, and we understand members of the community may feel concerned and anxious.
“It’s important for Queenslanders to remain calm and keep informed.
“We want everyone to know they can play their part to protect themselves and the more vulnerable in our community. Please follow the recommended advice from us and our Federal counterparts in regards to social distancing, public gatherings and general wellbeing.
“Critically, make sure you are practicing good hygiene and staying home if you’re sick. Washing your hands properly and often is the gold standard of health advice that can help prevent viruses from entering your body.
“Queensland Health is urging anyone who has been overseas in the last 14 days and has a fever or any respiratory symptoms to see a doctor immediately. Please call ahead to the GP surgery and let them know your symptoms and travel history, this will help them prepare for your arrival.”
The most up-to-date reliable information is available on the Queensland Health website
