2 March 2020

Dr Mark Veitch, Director of Public Health

A 40 year-old man has been confirmed as the first case of coronavirus in Tasmania.

The man arrived in Tasmania on Saturday from Iran. He was experiencing symptoms and contacted the Public Health Hotline where testing was arranged.

Confirmation from those tests was received today.

The man has been in self-quarantine but will be transferred to the Launceston General Hospital where he will be clinically managed as appropriate.

The patient has provided valuable assistance to Public Health staff, and any close contacts are being identified.

They will remain in self-quarantine for 14 days.

The man arrived in Launceston on Virgin flight VA-1368 which left Melbourne at 1:10 pm and landed in Launceston at 2:15 pm. Importantly, anyone who was on that flight and is feeling unwell should contact the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738.

Public Health Services will be contacting all passengers on the flight as part of the response to the positive case. The risk to other passengers and crew on the flight is low.

Despite the confirmation of a case, Tasmanians remain at low risk of coronavirus and no further actions on behalf of the public are required at this stage.

You can help slow the spread of viral illnesses by washing your hands often with soap and water, and using a tissue or elbow to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, then disposing of the tissue in a rubbish bin.

So far, 49 tests have been completed on 47 people in Tasmania. There has only been one positive test.

For general information about coronavirus, call the national 24-hour coronavirus information line on 1800 020 080 or visit the Australian Government Department of Health website

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