Queensland authorities are handling an outbreak of COVID-19 on a cruise ship as the state approaches 41,000 active cases.
Key points:
- Refunds are now offered on the next Coral Princess cruise
- The Queensland Health Minister said there were COVID protocols
- Queensland registered 4,804 more cases on Monday, bringing the number of active cases to 40,489
The outbreak between the crew and some Coral Princess passengers in Brisbane on Sunday caused Princess Cruises to offer refunds to those booked on their next 12-day cruise.
Queensland Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said there were COVID-19 protocols on the ship before the outbreak.
He said some passengers are isolating themselves at home or in other accommodation, while authorities are helping the company deal with infected personnel on board.
“This would always happen just like the rest of the community,” Ms. D’Ath said.
“The virus is everywhere and there is no escape, but I want to acknowledge that public health units, along with the cruise line, are doing things right and following current protocols.”
Princess Cruises has been asked for comment.
The Health Minister says there were COVID-19 protocols on the ship before the outbreak. (Reuters: Marco Bello)
Queensland registered 4,804 more cases of COVID-19 on Monday, bringing the number of active cases to 40,489.
No one has died from the virus, but there are 782 people in hospital and 10 in intensive care.
Prime Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk said there were no plans to force the face masks and said it was up to people whether to wear one or not.
“It’s people’s personal responsibility,” he said.
“So if you’re in a crowded area, it’s your choice to put on that mask.”
He urged people over 65 to wear masks and make sure they have had a booster, as those who “end up in hospital and tragically, people are losing their lives, are people over 65”.
With the children returning to class after the school holidays on Monday, the Health Minister asked the parents to keep their children at home if they were ill.
AAP