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Guide to Coronavirus for Brisbane
Dr Aaron Chambers • Feb 06, 2020
You will be aware that there is a rapidly evolving public health situation with Coronavirus in Brisbane. As your family GP, our job is to look after you as an individual and our community. It is important for everyone’s health and safety that anyone with fever, cough, sore throat or breathing difficulties who has been to China or any other affected country within the last 14 days is assessed by phone before coming to the clinic. Please let Grow Medical
reception know about your situation, and a nurse or doctor will call you back to make further arrangements for your care. If you arrive in our clinic without declaring potential Coronavirus contact, public health regulations mean our Doctors and Nurses need to stay off work in isolation until your testing comes back clear. This can have a big impact upon us caring for your friends, relatives and community, so please let us know so we can use appropriate precautions. We will continue to update our advice as further information becomes available from public health authorities.
Grow Medical looks at the emerging issue of Coronavirus. We will keep this page updated with specific Brisbane Coronavirus information as the situation develops.
About the Coronavirus COVID-19
Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that generally cause a common cold type illness. However, if a new strain of Coronavirus originates in animals and jumps to humans (called a Novel Coronvirus), the new virus can cause much more severe disease. SARS was one example in 2003, where nearly 10% of people who contracted the virus died. Luckily, the 2019 novel Coronavirus from Wuhan in China (now known as COVID-19) appears to be much less serious, and more akin to a bad flu. We are still learning about this virus because it is new, and is spreading rapidly.
The first novel coronavirus case was confirmed in Queensland on 29 January, followed by a second on 30 January 2020, with a third confirmed on 4 February. All cases were from a tour group from China. A 44-year-old Chinese national was the first case, a 42 year-old woman from Wuhan in China was the second, and a child from the same group from Wuhan was the third. All were isolated in a stable condition in the Gold Coast University Hospital.
Is The Coronavirus in Brisbane?
As of 25 February 2020, there have been 7 cases of Coronavirus in Queensland. 2 cases of Coronavirus have been treated in Brisbane, having been flown from the Northern Territory after evacuating the Diamond Princess Cruise Ship. However, many potential contacts have been identified, and many people tested for Coronavirus. Queensland Health is ensuring a coordinated response to the Coronavirus outbreak.
If you live in Brisbane and are considering travel overseas, or are returning from overseas, be sure to check the Smarttraveller Coronavirus Update
for advice from the Australian Government.
Coronavirus Symptoms
The symptoms of Coronavirus COVID-19 are fever, cough, fatigue and shortness of breath. Almost all patients with Coronavirus have these symptoms. A smaller number of people with Coronavirus have muscle aches, confusion, headache or sore throat. Coronavirus tends to affect groups, due to being spread by cough droplets. It is more likely to affect older males with underlying medical conditions, and can result in severe or even fatal pneumonia. Essentially, Coronavirus symptoms are very similar to a bad influenza.
So far, it seems that Coronavirus symptoms in children are relatively mild, and that children are not severely affected by Coronavirus COVID-19.
We have had a number of people present concerned they have coronavirus due to symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath. Most recent cases have proven to be Influenza A rather than Coronavirus. The key question to help decide the difference is recent travel to China or other affected countries. At present, only people who have traveled to an affected country in the 14 days before the onset of illness are considered potential cases, unless they have had close contact with a confirmed case in Australia.
Currently, testing should be considered for those with Coronavirus Symptoms and recent travel to:
- China
- Hong Kong
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Japan
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Thailand
How long does it take to get coronavirus after contact?
This is called the incubation period, and can take up to 14 days. We now know that the average time between catching Coronavirus and developing symptoms is around 5 days. The quarantine rules about how long to stay at home are based on the knowledge of the maximum time to develop symptoms. Once this time has passed, with no symptoms, a potential contact is considered clear.
Because of the significant impact the virus could have upon healthcare systems, the World Health Organisation is coordinating a Global Response.
Coronavirus Countries Affected
Countries where Australians could be considered to potentially contract COVID-19 as of 25 February 2020:
- China
- Hong Kong
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Japan
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Thailand
Public health advice is currently that transit through airports in these countries does not pose significant risk
Coronavirus Treatment
Most importantly, if you suspect you might have Coronavirus, phone ahead. Your doctor can help assess your likelihood of having coronavirus by phone, and make sure you don’t pose a risk to other people. Avoid public places until you have been cleared of Coronavirus. If you arrive in our clinic without declaring potential Coronavirus contact, public health regulations mean our Doctors and Nurses need to stay off work in isolation until your testing comes back clear. This can have a big impact upon us caring for your friends, relatives and community, so please let us know so we can use appropriate precautions. We are happy to help you!
If you are seriously unwell, your GP may advise you to go to the hospital emergency department. If you aren't feeling too unwell but could have Coronavirus due to fever and travel history, your GP might organise a pathology test in your home. Otherwise, if you need to see the doctor for assessment, when you arrive at the doctor, stay in your car and let them know you have arrived by phone. If it is possible that you have coronavirus, you should expect your doctor to come to your car wearing gown, gloves, glasses and a P2 mask. The doctor will give you a surgical mask to reduce droplet spread if you cough or sneeze.
The first 99 people diagnosed with Coronavirus
were treated in hospital in Wuhan, China. Within weeks, 11% had died. However, these first cases were much more sick than the average person with Coronavirus. Since then, it has become clear that many people with coronavirus have much less severe disease. Over time, the mortality rate reported by public health authorities has been falling, and has dropped to around 2 in 100 as of February 2020. It is believed this figure may continue to fall as more people with mild symptoms get tested, and as we understand the true spread of the condition.
Treatment required for Coronavirus depends on the severity of the disease. At present, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for Coronavirus. Supportive treatment such as intravenous fluids, oxygen and ventilation is provided to those with severe disease. Many of the severe cases experienced early in the outbreak in China had bacterial lung infections complicating their condition. There seems to be a high rate of bacterial pneumonia in those with more severe disease, so doctors will be vigilant for secondary pneumonia, and will start antibiotics where this is identified.
Because there is no vaccine yet available, and because we are still learning about how to treat Coronavirus infection, it is essential that we work together to reduce transmission. The University of Queensland is leading the world in developing a COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccine.
Coronavirus Transmission
No matter which respiratory virus, learning how to reduce transmission will help our community stay healthier. So these tips are worthwhile practicing always. Luckily, public health authorities have downgraded their estimates of how infectious the coronavirus is. It is believed to be spread by small droplets from coughing, which means you need to be within about a metre of someone when they cough to catch it easily. Because Coronavirus is spread via droplets which fall from the air, rather than being airborne, it is much less infectious than chickenpox or measles. This makes it much easier to avoid Coronavirus by practicing good hand hygiene, good cough etiquette and keeping a social distance apart.
How can I prevent coronavirus?
Good hygiene and staying at home if unwell are the key messages. To protect against infection make sure you wash your hands frequently
and if you cough or sneeze, cover your face with your upper arm or sleeve. Stay at least 1 metre apart from other people. Preferably, if you have respiratory illness, wear a surgical face mask.
How do we prevent spread of virus from someone with coronavirus in a medical setting?
You will notice healthcare staff using airborne transmission precautions, including P2 respirator mask, long sleeved disposable gown, gloves, and eye protection when entering a patient care area. This is not necessary for members of the public, as these measures are only required for close contact. Surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and the room allowed to air. Patients with potential Coronavirus are given a surgical mask to protect others.
How close do I need to be to someone to get coronavirus?
A close contact is defined as requiring greater than 15 minutes face-to-face contact with someone with Coronavirus, or sharing a closed space like a plane or bus for a prolonged period of more than 2 hours. So brief contact, especially outdoors, should not be a worry.
What happens if I contract coronavirus?
Coronavirus infection will generally be managed in hospital, but may be managed at home if it is deemed safe to do so by public health authorities. If you are in contact with a confirmed case of Coronavirus, you must isolate yourself in your home, without visitors, for 14 days.
If I have contact with someone with Coronavirus, how do I know I’m clear?
If you don’t develop fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath within 14 days of your last contact with someone who had coronavirus, you are considered no longer at risk.
How long does a P2 mask last for?
Generally, only healthcare professionals need a P2 mask for Coronavirus. P2 masks should be removed and disposed after about four hours of continuous use, or when they become moist. This is because the seal will not be as effective. P2 masks should be replaced after each use. More information on how to fit a P2 mask.
Coronavirus Testing Brisbane
As of 8 February 2020, Queensland Health have now expanded their testing program, and automated the process to ensure anyone at risk can be quickly tested. Private pathology labs are now able to provide testing should it be required. Please note our Mater Pathology Sherwood collection centre does not do Coronavirus testing for the general public.
To prevent infection to others, it is important not to visit a pathology collection centre in a shopping centre, medical centre or other busy public premises. A list of appropriate locations for collection have been published below:
Coronavirus Doctor Advice
In Brisbane, we are well placed to deal with Coronavirus due to quality medical providers, a strong public health system and a very low number of cases of Coronavirus in Australia. At this early stage, for most people it is quite unlikely that you will contract coronavirus, or even be a contact. We believe it is important at these times not to alienate each other, or let fear dictate our behaviour, but rather to work together to protect each other. Your role is to practice the good hygiene tips above, and to continue to support our local businesses who are already noticing a reduction in foot trade. We live in a country with plenty of space, and an excellent health system. You can continue your life knowing that we will be here when you need us.
Remember, if you need doctor advice due to potential contact with Coronavirus, please advise us prior to arriving in the clinic so we can help you avoid the need to come to the clinic, or use appropriate precautions if necessary. Some people have been worried that their care will be refused if they tell us prior. Don't worry. You will still receive the care you need.
If you are travelling overseas, be sure to book in for a travel consultation. Coronavirus is worth discussing, but it is also important to remember all the routine travel vaccination requirements for Asia.
We have now had a number of people present with symptoms and potential contact, and we have arranged testing for those individuals. Fortunately, all have tested clear so far. Queensland Health have been able to provide results in under 24 hours, which is an impressive effort given how new this virus is.
Book a consultation
with Grow Medical
today. But be sure to follow the advice above and Phone Ahead
if needed!
Dr Aaron Chambers
General Practitioner
BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health
BSc, MBBS(Hons), FRACGP, Dip Child Health
The author Dr Aaron Chambers
has worked in General Practice since 2006. He is passionate and an authority on family practice, paediatrics and obstetric care. After completing his medical degree with honours at the University of Queensland, Dr Chambers served as an RAAF Doctor, conducting humanitarian missions and evacuating wounded servicemen from the Middle East. He continues to consult at Oxley, Sherwood
and Highgate Hill Grow Medical Clinics.