The emergence of a novel coronavirus is a rapidly evolving global health issue.
Globally there are more than 6000 cases of the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) according to the latest situation report from the World Health Organization (WHO) (as of *30 Jan 2020).
First identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, the Novel Coronavirus 2019-nCoV is a new virus strain that has not been previously identified in humans.
A total of seven cases have been confirmed in Australia.
The Australian Government, like other governments around the world, is implementing procedures aimed at reducing the spread of the coronavirus.
Symptoms commonly include feeling tired, difficulty breathing, high temperature, a cough and/or sore throat.
If you have these symptoms and have travelled recently to a high-risk area, or been in contact with someone who has the advice is to:
- Stay home and contact your GP or health professional, or
- Call the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) dedicated hotline on 1800 675 398.
Precautions advised by public health experts include:
- Frequently clean hands using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
- Wash your hands before eating
- Regularly clean commonly used surfaces and devices you touch and handle
- When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue - throw tissue away immediately and wash hands
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough
- Observe and comply with health-related signage.
The Australian Government Department of Health is closely monitoring the outbreak.
Read the latest updates from Australia's Chief Medical Officer.
Other useful resources include:
- DHHS information for the public - regularly updated
- WHO advice on personal hygiene
- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advice for travellers
- Real-time updates on the spread of the virus by Johns Hopkins University
- WHO's technical advice for clinicians
As more information about the coronavirus becomes available, advice may change over time.
Our thoughts are with friends and family in Hubei province and anyone who has been affected.
