The world has just surpassed 1 million deaths from the coronavirus pandemic, these numbers are from over 33 million confirmed cases of COVID-19.

In NSW we have had zero cases for the last two days, this is the first time since June 10. In the far north coast our last confirmed COVID case was on July 16 when a Lismore resident flew into Ballina from Sydney. Since then we have been coronavirus free.

Queensland recorded 0 new cases today and 1 yesterday due to an overseas traveller with 3 confirmed cases on Saturday, two are crew from an International ship and a third an overseas traveller.

Victoria recorded 5 new cases today with 3 deaths, 16 new cases with 2 deaths yesterday and 12 new cases and 1 death on Saturday.

A lot of people are still comparing COVID-19 to the seasonal flu.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that a typical flu season estimates 1 billion cases worldwide with a death toll of between 290,000 and 650,000 people.

When you compare 33 million COVID cases with 1 million deaths you can clearly see that the coronavirus is having a much stronger impact than the seasonal influenza virus.

In fact the WHO is predicting a death toll of 2 million if infection fighting methods are not kept up.

“One million is a terrible number and we need to reflect on that before we start considering a second million,” the WHO’s emergencies director Michael Ryan told reporters when asked how much higher deaths could mount. But he added: “Are we prepared collectively to do what it takes to avoid that number?

“If we don’t take those actions … yes, we will be looking at that number and sadly much higher.”

This is the main reason why some experts are saying that international travel may not happen for another 12 to 24 months. However, Treasure Josh Frydenberg alluded to a January 1, 2021 start with the prospect of two weeks in isolation upon your return.

No firm decision has been made.

Wayne Jones, Chief Executive Northern NSW Local Health District has urged everyone to get tested early if they have any COVID-19 symptoms at all, particularly with the expected influx of tens-of-thousands of visitors.

“Maintaining our COVID vigilance during the school holidays is vital to support the great position we currently are in,” said Mr Jones.

“Testing numbers have declined in recent weeks and we are appealing to the community to come forward for testing right away if you have a runny nose or scratchy throat, cough, fever or other symptoms that could be COVID-19.

“If people don’t come forward and get tested, we can’t keep the pandemic at bay.”

“With extra visitors coming to our region, and more of us catching up with friends and getting out and about, it is more important than ever to get a COVID test,” Mr Jones said.

We are encouraging all residents and visitors to:

• If you are unwell, get tested and isolate right away – don’t delay.
• Wash your hands regularly. Take hand sanitiser with you when you go out.
• Keep your distance. Leave 1.5 metres between yourself and others.
• Wear a mask on public transport, ride share, taxis, shopping, places of worship and other places where you can’t physically distance.

If we want to continue to be COVID free then vigilance is the still the key.