Treasurer Josh Frydenberg isolating himself after coughing in Parliament

The treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, is in isolation in Canberra and has been tested for Covid-19 after enduring a protracted coughing fit while delivering an economic update to parliament.

In a short statement, the treasurer said he sought medical advice and the deputy chief medical officer advised that he be tested “out of an abundance of caution” because he had experienced a dry mouth and a cough. The results of the test are expected on Wednesday.

The statement was delivered shortly after noon. Frydenberg remained in the chamber for much of Tuesday, including during question time, which largely focused on the economic statement he made earlier in the day.

MPs in the parliamentary chambers are spaced so they are socially distant from one another, but Frydenberg’s coughing episode happened at the dispatch box, where frontbenchers from the prime minister down stand to deliver answers to questions, and make speeches.