That's a high number but what is significant this week is that the trend is flattening.

This shows the work governments did beginning two weeks ago to implement social distancing, isolation and hygiene measures.

The concern at that stage was exponential growth of COVID-19 with the possibility that each infected person could infect two to three others and very quickly those numbers would mount up.

That hasn't happened and after rising to 70 a day late last week it has dropped to 20 to 40 a day this week.

It's good news but no reason to be complacent.

While the North West Queensland region still awaits its first confirmed case, the disease has entered Robbie Katter's constituency of Traeger with the first confirmed case in Charters Towers on the weekend;

We must remain vigilant.

The majority of cases are from patients who have travelled overseas, or have had direct contact with a confirmed case who had travelled overseas.

But we know that COVID-19 can spread via commonly used surfaces like door handles and petrol pumps.

So hygiene remains a crucial tool.

Always wash your hands the last thing you do before you go (if you have to go out) and the first thing you do when you return.

I know it is difficult but try to refrain from touching your head with your hands while outside.

All travellers arriving in Queensland from interstate must now self-quarantine for 14 days. This applies to all travellers, even if you have no symptoms.

If you have been overseas in the last 14 days and are feeling unwell, see a doctor immediately. Before your appointment, call ahead and advise of your symptoms and recent travel so they can prepare for your visit.

Common symptoms of COVID-19 coronavirus include fever, a cough, sore throat, fatigue and / or shortness of breath.

If you develop symptoms, you must call your GP or 13HEALTH on 13 43 25 84.