Redlands COVID 19 testing centres expect influx as Queensland returnees get tested

Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said Queensland Health has increased its testing capacity with extra staffing and extended hours to help manage demand at fever clinics across the state.

She said there were 76 Queensland Health testing facilities that were operating and many more in the private sector.

This comes as Queenslanders who had been in Victoria on or since December 21 were advised to get tested and quarantine until they get their results.

"Testing facilities are available seven days a week and include dedicated fever clinics and drive through sites, private labs and Commonwealth-run clinics," she said.

"We have been working to increase capacity across the state - particularly in the south east corner - by mobilising additional clinics and staff, and extending hours at existing clinics," Dr Young said.

Redlands COVID testing venues here.

New restrictions will come into effect from today restricting anyone who has been in Victoria on or since 21 December from entering vulnerable facilities.

Dr Young said the restrictions would apply to aged care facilities, hospitals, disability accommodation and correctional facilities.

"We're responding quickly to protect people in these facilities by restricting any visitors who have been in high-risk locations so we can keep them as safe as possible," she said.

Queensland has five new cases of coronavirus today and all cases were overseas acquired.

There are currently 17 active cases of COVID-19 in the state and a total 1,494,611 tests have been conducted.

Dr Young urged Queenslanders to reconsider their need to travel to Victoria and New South Wales.

"We have not declared hotspots in Victoria or in other areas of New South Wales outside of Greater Sydney - so right now, people can move freely between states," she said.

"But it's really important the community understands that decisions may need to be made quickly to protect Queenslanders".