QLD’s COVID-19 modelling predicts surge in hospitalisations
There are fears elective surgery could be impacted as pressure builds on the public health system in Queensland and COVID-19 cases surge.
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath says authorities were keeping a close eye on the COVID-19 case numbers in hospital, with the latest modelling predicting cases as high as the first wave.
522 patients are currently being treated in hospital.
“As of today, there were more than 1700 health staff were isolating due to COVID-19,” Ms D’Ath told Peter Fegan, filling in on 4BC Drive.
“The Premier in her press conference this afternoon did indicate today’s numbers were level with yesterday’s but I have already been advised that tomorrow will be over 600.”
She said some hospitals may make decisions to suspend procedures, based on case numbers and staffing levels.
While there is no recommendation from Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard to bring back mandatory masks, Ms D’Ath implored people to wear them in areas where they couldn’t social distance.
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