Loading "Whether it's extreme versions of misinformation, people pursuing their own commercial interest, or others offering opinions based on what they heard - these kinds of things are driving the panics we're seeing," he said. The medical and public health communities have rallied around Dr Murphy and the authorities amid criticism the official advice has been slow and badly communicated. Veteran ABC presenter and physician Norman Swan, strategic health adviser Bill Bowtell and Medical Journal of Australia editor-in-chief Nick Talley have at times ignored the government's advice in recent weeks by calling for stronger action such as lockdowns and school closures. Chief medical officers at a state and federal level argue schools should remain open for the time being. Tania Sorrell, director of the Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, said high-profile commentators were well-intentioned but should be careful with their comments.

"I think everybody is trying to do the right thing and trying to persuade the authorities to do what they believe is in the best interests of the country," Professor Sorrell said. "But it's difficult if groups of individuals want to convey a different message than what is the consensus message that is being supported by various professional societies and ministries of health at state and Commonwealth level." Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video Dr Murphy and Mr Morrison announced stronger measures over the past two days. They have also explained why authorities have decided against more severe options at this point, such as school closures. Mr Slevin said he was not "suggesting there aren't varying opinions" among experts. "There is legitimate debate about ways forward in the health community, but they need to be conducted in a calm and professional manner by experts," he said.

Australian Medical Association president of Tony Bartone agreed that "evidence-based information led by the Chief Medical Officer is the way to go". "There's so much information and material that goes into their decision making, that [you can't] have a situation where you're trying to make comment on only part of it," he said. "Everyone wants to be an expert. Let the evidence and the leaders speak for themselves. We need a single source of truth. The public want leadership, information and reassurance." Dr Swan - who is not an epidemiologist - defended his commentary, telling the Herald the government's communication had improved this week from what he described as a terrible start. "I’ve known Brendan Murphy for a long time, probably 20 years," he said. "It doesn't give me any pleasure to be criticising the government that he represents. But they've been all over the shop."