Queensland COVID-19 modelling shows third Omicron wave hospitalisations to peak in late August
By Alex Brewster
New modelling shows COVID-19 hospitalisations are likely to peak in late August at around 1,660 patients, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has revealed in parliament.
Key points:
- The Premier does not expect ICU numbers to rise with the peak in hospitalisations
- It was only a week ago the number of people in hospital with COVID exceeded 1,000
- Ms Palaszczuk said masks and boosters were vital as the state experienced its worst COVID wave to date
The news comes as the state recorded a new record-high in hospitalisations today, with 1,123 people being treated for the virus in hospitals, 31 people in intensive care, and 21 deaths recorded in the latest reporting period.
Ms Palaszczuk said intensive care numbers were not predicted to rise with hospitalisations.
Queensland has recorded 8,612 new cases of COVID-19, taking the number of active cases to 66,569.
It was only a week ago hospitalisations exceeded the 1,000 mark for the first time.
Another 47 people are being treated in hospital for influenza.
Ms Palaszczuk said masks and boosters were vital as the state experienced its worst COVID-19 wave to date.
"Where you can't feel that you can, socially distance.
"It is very, very important that people get that booster. The biggest impact COVID is having is on our seniors and seniors in our community."
The Premier said in a tweet, the health system would be ready for the sharp increase in COVID-19 patients.
"Hard work is underway to ensure our health system is ready for what's ahead," she wrote.
"Preparations include bringing extra beds online and scaling up our QAS coordination hub.
"We're moving more health staff to the frontline and using virtual care models to reduce pressure on EDs (emergency departments).
"When we are faced with the worst, Queenslanders always step up. It's time to come together again and fight: get vaccinated, use a mask in crowds and indoors, and stay home if you're sick. Thanks for looking after each other, Queensland."