Thirty-five South Australians are currently awaiting test results for novel coronavirus. Two test results returned positive on Saturday 1 February.
One person initially returned a very weak positive test result, but was this afternoon cleared of any known link to novel coronavirus through subsequent multiple tests.
Patients should continue to present to their GP if they are displaying any symptoms and have recently returned from mainland China, or have been in close contact with someone who is a confirmed case. Importantly, patients should call ahead first so their GP can prepare for their visit.
We have undertaken further investigations into the movements of the two confirmed cases. As a result of these investigations, several people have been notified and advised to self-isolate as a precaution.
In line with Commonwealth advice, this is also a strong reminder of the importance that maintaining self-isolation at home for 14 days from the last date of exposure for the following groups of people is a must:
- Anyone who has returned from mainland China on or after1 February 2020.
- Anyone who has recently returned from Hubei Province.
- Anyone who has been in close contact with a known confirmed case.
- Anyone being specifically tested for novel coronavirus whilst awaiting results.
Novel coronavirus testing is now part of routine respiratory infection testing, resulting in a more efficient and streamlined process for GPs.
Now that novel coronavirus is part of routine respiratory infection testing, we will report on the number of positive cases and cases specifically under investigation by the Communicable Disease Control Branch, rather than the total number of tests performed.
Novel coronavirus is a controlled notifiable condition under the South Australian Public Health Act 2011. Doctors and diagnostic laboratories are required to notify the Communicable Disease Control Branch of any suspected cases.
