How to slow the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus

Seventy-eight-year-old Perth man James Kwan is the first person in Australia to die because of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Since his death, New South Wales Health and the Australian government have spoken out on how we can ensure the virus does not continue to spread.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard during an announcement regarding 2020 influenza vaccine, March 2, 2020. Source: AAP

The Australian government is emphasising its support for those affected by the COVID-19 coronavirus, following the first virus-related death in Australia.

Peter Dutton, Home Affairs Minister is thinking of Mr Kwan's family and others affected by COVID19 at this time.

Keeping Australians as healthy and as safe as possible is Australia's number one priority, according to Mr Dutton.

 After the death of Mr Kwan, New South Wales Health have announced that the state will now permit pharmacies to give the flu vaccine to kids as young as ten - the previous age limit being 16.

 The state's Minister for Health, Brad Hazzard says that simply washing your hands is the most effective way to avoid the spread of both the flu and coronavirus.

Meanwhile in Victoria and in Queensland, elective surgeries have been pushed back to free up beds for anyone who may be affected by COVID19.