NSW Health is urging people who have recently returned from Wuhan or have been in contact with a confirmed case of novel coronavirus infection to ensure they are aware of the symptoms and seek immediate health assessment if symptoms develop within 14 days.

Three adult males have been diagnosed with the novel coronavirus. Two cases had travelled to Wuhan, China and one case had direct contact with a confirmed case from Wuhan while in China.

NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, said these cases demonstrate the importance of returning travellers knowing the symptoms of novel coronavirus infection.

“Anyone with these symptoms should practise simple hygiene by covering their coughs and sneezes with a tissue or their elbow and washing their hands thoroughly.”

Dr Chant said it is important people take action to keep their family and friends safe, so don’t be afraid to speak to your doctor if you have any symptoms.

NSW Minister for Health, Brad Hazzard, urged anyone with symptoms to come forward as soon as they feel unwell.

“It is important people feel confident contacting their GP or local emergency Department.

“They should also call ahead to speak to their GP or Emergency Department. If the GP considers novel coronavirus testing is needed they will be referred to the Emergency department for testing”

A male in his 50s arrived in Sydney from Wuhan, China, on China Eastern flight number MU749 on 20 January 2020. He developed symptoms that night and he subsequently attended a GP. He was diagnosed in hospital with novel coronavirus on 25 January 2020.

A man in his 30s arrived in Sydney from China, on 6 January 2020. He did not develop symptoms until 15 January 2020 and saw his GP. He was diagnosed in hospital with novel coronavirus on 25 January 2020. He had contact with a person from Wuhan diagnosed with the virus.

A man in his 40s arrived in Sydney after being in Wuhan, China, on 18 January 2020. He did not develop symptoms until 24 January 2020 and self-presented to hospital on the same day. He was diagnosed in hospital with novel coronavirus on 25 January 2020.

All three patients are currently in isolation in NSW hospitals.

Public Health Units are following up contacts of these patients in accordance with National Guidelines.

As part of the ongoing international response, NSW Health will continue to work closely with Commonwealth Government agencies to monitor travellers returning from Wuhan, China.

Health workers in NSW public hospitals and community-based GPs have been issued advice to help them identify any cases and apply careful infection control measures to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

For more information visit COVID-19 (Coronavirus)