Third wave of COVID-19 could peak higher than second wave, Queensland Health Minister Yvette D'Ath says

Queensland's Health Minister Yvette D'Ath has not ruled out the re-introduction of mask mandates in light of an increase in COVID-19 cases as the third wave makes its way through the state.

Key points:

Ms D'Ath said Queensland Health would follow any future advice from the Chief Health Officer

Queensland recorded 3,971 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, with no deaths

Ms D'Ath said the third wave of COVID likely has not peaked

Ms D'Ath said there was no recommendation at the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) to re-introduce mandatory masks, but Queensland Health would follow any future advice from the Chief Health Officer (CHO).

"We do remind people as we go through this third wave that they can make those decisions for themselves," Ms D'Ath said.

"I know just about everyone carries a mask with them, whether it's in your car or your handbag.

"So if people feel like they're in a situation where they can't socially distance and they are particularly vulnerable then, you know, by all means, wear a mask."

Queensland recorded 3,971 new COVID-19 cases and 32,061 active cases in the past 24 hours, with no deaths.

There were 630 people in hospital, with 18 in intensive care.

Ms D'Ath said it was important that people remember COVID-19 was still having an impact on communities.

"We're hearing that this wave that we're in, a third wave, could end up peaking higher than we saw the second wave and we are not at that peak yet," she said.

"Our health workers would prefer to not have to be caring for people who are seriously unwell from COVID who are in ICU and sadly, who are passing away every week.

"We've got over 1,500 staff furloughed again and we ask for everyone's patience as our hospitals and our health staff do their best to look after everyone in these very trying times.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-03/qld-covid-third-wave-masks-health-minister/101204310