Coronavirus: Canberra private school asks students returning from China to get medical clearance

There have been four confirmed cases - three in NSW and one in Victoria - of coronavirus in Australia and another one feared.

The virus has so far killed more than 100 people in China and infected more than 2700 across the globe.

In a letter to the school community, Canberra Grammar School head Justin Garrick said parents and students should err on the side of caution by staying home if in doubt.

"The school asks any families with members who have travelled outside Australia in the past two weeks to countries with confirmed coronavirus cases to seek independent medical advice from their doctor before returning to school," he said.

"We also require any families with members who have been to China in the past 14 days to seek independent medical advice and provide medical clearance to the school health clinic ... prior to returning to school.

"Should quarantining be advised by a doctor or by Australian health authorities, please contact the school to seek arrangements for educational support."

University of Canberra deputy vice chancellor Geoff Crisp said while the university had only about 800 Chinese students, it remained proactive and vigilant.

He said there were a handful of students - both current and commencing - with a home location in Wuhan who had been personally contacted to see if they were already in Australia or en-route.

They have been asked to isolate themselves and seek medical advice if they are unwell, and have also been offered support to ensure their studies are not affected.

"In addition, we have placed posters throughout residences on cough and sneezing etiquette as well as a supply of masks at the reception desks to be proactive in helping to keep those on residences healthy," Professor Crisp said.

"For students still in China, we are providing support based on their individual circumstances to support their studies.

"We have an experienced medical and counselling team on site at UC, and they are available via phone for anyone experiencing symptoms on (02) 6201 2351."

Health Minister Greg Hunt said about 400 Australians had registered for help to get out of the Chinese province currently under lock-down because of the virus.

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The latest available data from the Centre for Independent Studies estimated 59 per cent of international students at Australian National University were from China. There were more than 10,000 international students at the university in 2018.

The university was asked what the protocols were for students returning from China but a spokeswoman did not answer directly.

She said the university was implementing a communication and support plan to ensure all students and staff were provided with accurate information about the coronavirus and what to do should they have symptoms.

"We advise students and staff travelling overseas to follow DFAT advice, which is currently not to travel to Hubei Province," she said.

"Quarantine and managing infectious diseases are the responsibility of national and state governments and we will be led by them, but we are ready to activate our infectious disease plans as required.

"These include the capacity to isolate infected individuals and minimise spread of disease through simple steps such as face masks and hand sanitisers."

ACT Health has advised there was no home quarantine advice for travelers returning from Wuhan, but that the situation was evolving.

There is screening in place at Australian airports for all arrivals from China. People who are screened that are well are given a fact sheet.

There is no advice regarding the use of masks or home quarantine for a period following arrival in Australia.

If someone becomes unwell with a flu-like illness after arriving in Australia they are advised to isolate themselves, use a mask and seek medical assistance by a phone call, mentioning their travel history.

The Chief Health Officer, the Catholic Education Office and the ACT Education Directorate have been contacted for comment.