Queensland health said routing wastewater testing had discovered viral fragments at sites in Townsville, Rockhampton and Nambour, on the Sunshine Coast.Queensland chief health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said the samples were taken on January 12, 18 and 19.She said while the results were a cause for vigilance, they did not necessarily mean that there were undiagnosed cases in the community.“A positive sewage result means that someone who has been infected or is currently infected, is shedding the virus,” Dr Young said.“Infected people can shed viral fragments and that shedding can happen for several weeks to months after the person is no longer infectious.“This does not necessarily mean we have new cases of COVID-19 in these communities.”She urged anyone in the Townsville, Nambour and Rockhampton regions who exhibit symptoms to get tested immediately.
According to Queensland Health figures, there are no active cases in Townsville or Central Queensland, however there are two active cases on the Sunshine Coast.“If there is a case in the community, it is critical we detect it through our testing mechanisms as quickly as possible to contain any potential spread and protect the great progress Queensland has made in recent months,” she said.“I also want to reassure the community, local drinking water is thoroughly treated through processes that are designed to remove or kill microorganisms before they reach your taps – so there is no risk.”
Powered by WPeMatico
