Coronavirus 'less severe in children' as Adelaide baby remains in stable condition

The new COVID-19 clinic at the Royal Adelaide Hospital has conducted tests and assessments on 28 people, however, no further coronavirus cases have been confirmed.

SA Health spokesperson Nicola Spurrier told a press conference today a 40-year-old mother and her 8-month-old baby, diagnosed with the virus, are in a stable condition at Flinders Medical Centre.

The mother and child arrived in Adelaide on March 1, after boarding Malaysia Airlines flight MH139 from Iran with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur.

"Research has uncovered that COVID 19 is less severe in children, so the pediatrician at Flinders Medical Centre said that the 8-month-old baby is doing well," Prof. Spurrier confirmed.

SA Health encourages anyone who was on board the flight to contact the Communicable Disease Control Branch (CDCB) and self-quarantine for 14 days if symptoms arise.

"The clinic is for people with symptoms and those who were in close proximity to the affected person on the flight," Prof. Spurrier told the press conference.

"That is, passengers who were two rows ahead, two rows behind, or two to the side.

"There have been a lot of people attending the clinic that don't need to; SA Health is employing more staff for the CDCB phone line to deal with these enquiries."

Prof. Spurrier said a 24-year-old, who yesterday was confirmed as the fifth coronavirus diagnosis in South Australia, remains in a stable condition in Adelaide Hospital.

When asked about advice for crowds at public events, such as the Adelaide Festival, Prof. Spurrier advised not to panic.

"There is no need to cancel public gatherings, however if you are unwell, I urge you to think about the health and wellbeing at the event and stay away," she said.

"Basic hygiene measures are very pertinent. If you are out and begin to get flu-like symptoms remember to use cough etiquette."

SA Health are looking to facilitate further protective equipment for GPs to maintain supply.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also issued a coronavirus "myth busters" guide in an attempt to combat misinformation.