Queensland Health Minister Yvette D’Ath.
The woman was confirmed late on Tuesday to have the Delta variant as parts of Queensland entered a three-day lockdown. Her brother has also since tested positive.
When asked why an unvaccinated worker was allowed to work outside the COVID ward,Ms D’Ath told ABC Radio the issue was being investigated.
“They were working as the receptionist outside the ward,and they absolutely should have been part of that mandatory (vaccination) group,” she said.
The Prince Charles Hospital in the north Brisbane suburb of Chermside.Credit:Facebook
She said every health worker had been offered the opportunity to get vaccinated,but while the receptionist had not refused it,she also “didn’t take the option up”.
“I’m not aware that she refused it,I think she just didn’t take the option up,” she said.
“Everyone in health has been offered to go and get vaccinated either at a vaccination centre at their own hospital or any of our community vaccination hubs.”