Tough new COVID rules for travellers

MANDATORY COVID-19 testing for travellers and extra pop-up clinics in Cairns could be rolled out by the State Government in an effort to stifle a second wave of coronavirus.

Health Minister Stephen Miles said testing would be a requirement for travellers who entered Queensland and developed coronavirus symptoms within 14 days of arriving, including Queensland residents and interstate visitors.

“It will be a condition of the Queensland border pass that a declaration is made that they will go and get tested,” he said.

“If you fail, the fine of up to $4004 will apply.”

Mr Miles said health services in tourist destinations “like the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Cairns” could be asked to roll out pop-up clinics to cope with the testing load.

“Once they have signed their declarations they will get a reminder to go to a pop-up clinic,” he said.

A Cairns health spokesman said clinics would also be set up if required at the Cassowary Coast and Tablelands.

“The Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service has a fever clinic based at Cairns Hospital and also has a drive-through fever clinic at Cairns North Community Health Centre,” the spokesman said.

“Hospitals at

Atherton,

Mareeba, Innisfail, Mossman, Tully and Yarrabah are also able to screen and provide tests through their emergency departments.

“If required, pop-up fever clinics can be established at Atherton, Mareeba and Innisfail Hospitals.”

The measures will be rolled out with a new border direction by the chief health officer prohibiting people coming to Queensland from Victoria.

“Victorians attempting to enter Queensland will be turned around except in limited circumstances,” Mr Miles said on Thursday.

Queenslanders returning to the state from Victoria will be required to enter two weeks of self-paid hotel quarantine.