Even so, as the outbreak that has spread globally, Timor-Leste will continue to send coronavirus tests to labs in Australia.

The coronavirus has killed nearly 37,500 people and infected more than 784,000 people, according to the World Health Organisation. Nearly 165,000 have recovered.

While the bulk of those infected with the virus experience only mild symptoms, it is severe or critical in around 20 per cent of patients. The virus mortality rate is about 3.4%, the WHO has estimated.

Timor-Leste stepped up its response to contain community transmission of the novel coronavirus on Saturday, implementing a one-month state of emergency that includes closing public transport, schools and religious services as well as stricter measures on social distancing.