Queenslanders to be congratulated for lockdown success

All Queenslanders deserve to be congratulated for their sacrifices and hard work over the past week, which have allowed the lockdown in South East Queensland to be lifted from 4pm today.

AMA Queensland President Professor Chris Perry said today’s announcement shows that short, sharp lockdowns work.

“This should be of some comfort to the people of Cairns and Yarrabah as they go into what we all hope will only be a three-day lockdown,” Prof Perry said.

“We encourage the lockdown legends to continue to quarantine as needed to protect our community from COVID and particularly the highly infectious Delta strain.

“Lockdown has been difficult, even distressing, for many people, but Queenslanders have responded with maturity and intelligence.

“The fact that this outbreak has been limited to 148 active cases, all but two of which can be traced to the Indooroopilly cluster, is a victory for our health officials and contact tracers, and for the sensible response of the community.”

As restrictions ease, now is the time to book in for your COVID vaccinations with your GP.

Chair of AMA Queensland’s Council of General Practice Dr Maria Boulton, who is one of more than 400 medical professionals forced into home quarantine by the latest outbreak, said it is vital to get vaccinated as soon as possible by your family GP.

“We all want to get back to work and school. This can only happen if we all continue to take precautions, and if we get vaccinated,” Dr Boulton said.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected, particularly those families affected by COVID infections, those still in quarantine, and those in far north Queensland who are about to go into lockdown.”

Dr Eleanor Chew, Chair of AMA Queensland’s Board and Council, said GPs are best placed to administer both doses of the COVID vaccine.

“More than 20 per cent of Queensland adults are now fully vaccinated, and we urge everyone to book in now with their GP for both jabs,” Dr Chew said.

“Your GP can answer your questions, make sure your vaccines are appropriately timed and recorded, and can monitor your ongoing health care.”

Prof Perry said Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young deserves special commendation for her work.

“It’s little wonder that she and her Federal, State and Territory colleagues were recognised for their service at the recent AMA National Conference, receiving the federal President’s Award.”

MEDIA CONTACT: AMA Queensland – 0419 735 641 – media@amaq.com.au