A Gold Coast man is believed to have died suddenly from complications from COVID-19 as the state records a new daily case record.
4,249 cases were detected in the last 24 hours taking the total number of active cases to 20,239.
147 people are in hospital and 10 are now being treated in intensive care including one who is on a ventilator.
Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard said, tragically, a man had passed away.
“I can report that a man in his late 30’s with probable COVID-19 died suddenly at his home on the Gold Coast last night,” he said.
The CHO gave little details about the man’s death as it is now the subject of a Coronial investigation.
“All I would say very strongly is that it is very, very unusual for a young man to die suddenly from COVID-19, it’s a very unusual circumstance,” Dr Gerrard said.
“So, it needs further investigation into what exactly has happened here.
“The vast majority of people with COVID-19, particularly young people, have mild illness, particular if they’re vaccinated.
“I do believe this individual was vaccinated.
“So the circumstances are very unusual, this is not at all what we would typically see with COVID-19 in someone of this age.”
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said her thoughts were with the man’s family.
“Any death during a pandemic is extremely sad,” the Premier said.
“I think the family would be very upset during this time of year as well.
“I pass on to the family our deep condolences.”
The Premier also urged people to think about limiting their time in community as the virus continues to spread.
I know it’s holidays at the moment and everyone’s out there enjoying themselves but think very carefully about where you are going,” she said.
“Think very carefully about your family, your friends, your interactions.
“We’ll get through this together if everyone does the right thing.”
The Premier also announced the state government had secured 18 million rapid antigen tests to help keep up with the growing demand.
“This is a big issue for people out there wanting to get rapid antigen tests,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“I know it’s the topic of conversation everywhere I go.
“As we get supplies in, we’ll be releasing those supplies.
“Also, we’ve been speaking with the pharmacies, they’re going to be getting more stockpiles in over the coming weeks as well.”
Today we have recorded 4,249 new COVID-19 cases.
Full details ➡ https://t.co/2vvTmli7qN pic.twitter.com/WUIhgzXYnc
— Queensland Health (@qldhealth) January 3, 2022
