Qld cases surge to 4289 with one death

Robyn Wuth | January 3, 2022

Queensland has reported a surge in COVID-19 cases to 4249 and the death of a man in his late 30s, as the virus continues to spread across the state. 

The number of active cases has soared to 20,239, with 10 people currently in intensive care. 

Chief Health Officer John Gerrard said the man with “probable COVID-19” died at his home on the Gold Coast.

“I can report that a man in his late 30s with probable COVID-19 died suddenly in his home on the Gold Coast last night,” Dr Gerrard said. 

“This will be referred to the coroner and our thoughts are with his family. 

“I would say that it’s very, very unusual for a young man to die suddenly from COVID-19. 

“It’s a very unusual circumstance so it needs further investigation to find out exactly what has happened here.”

Dr Gerrard said authorities did not have confirmation of his diagnosis.

“It’s still on a provisional basis, on a rapid antigen test,” he said.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the death was a reminder to people of the health risks from the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.

“This is a highly infectious strain. And I want Queenslanders to think really carefully over the next month where they go especially if they haven’t had their booster,” she said.

Testers processed 30,806 COVID-19 tests conducted in the 24 hours to 7am on Monday.

“We know there has been a strain on the testing in Queensland, as there has been in every state of Australia in every country of the world,” Dr Gerrard said. 

“There has been significant demand on the Gold Coast and we are increasing our capacity down there in the next day or so. 

“We are expecting increasing capacity as well across the state.”