What would a coronavirus pandemic mean to Australia?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that that coronavirus has "pandemic potential" and all countries should prepare accordingly.

Chinese medical workers escort a patient Source: AAP Image/YFC / Costfoto/Sipa USA

While the number of COVID-19 cases in Australia remains low, the government has plans in place if infections do spike. 

So should Australians be worried about a coronavirus pandemic?

The government "is preparing for every eventuality, including both continued containment or the possibility of a pandemic".

The spokesperson said an Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan has been developed.  If the outbreak escalates, the plan says that the "pressure on health services will be more intense".

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