Summer is here and we all want to stay safe and enjoy it. Here are some reminders to help us stay alert and minimize the spread of COVID-19 during the holiday season.
- Wear a mask or face cover when going out
- Scan anywhere you go or manually update your log in the COVID Tracer app or on a hard copy. This is especially important during the holidays, because later on you may not remember all the places you visited or the people you saw.
- Prepare your vaccination card, either on your phone or on a hard copy. It will be required to enter places requiring proof of vaccination. A hard copy of your My Vaccine Pass is a useful backup to keep with you in case you lose your phone or run out of battery.
- Get tested – testing services will remain available during the summer. If you need to take a test, call Healthline (0800 358 5453) or check the Healthpoint website for more information on the nearest testing service and find out when it’s open.
- Be ready. Have backup plans if the COVID Protection Framework setting changes
- Continue to maintain good hygiene practices.
If you are not feeling well, or have been exposed to a positive COVID-19 case in your area of origin:
- Stay home, do not travel, or participate in events or activities if you are sick
- Call 0800 VIRUS-19 (0800 847 8719) for advice and to arrange your test
If you are not feeling well or have been exposed to a positive COVID-19 case while on vacation or away from home:
- Call 0800 VIRUS-19 (0800 847 8719) or visit the Healthpoint website for information on local healthcare professionals who can advise you if and where you should be tested.
- If you are advised to take a test, please do so as soon as possible; don’t wait to get home to get tested
- If you are symptomatic, isolate until you receive your test result
- If you test positive for COVID-19 while on vacation, a health official will discuss your situation and advise you on what to do. They will discuss your options and agree on a plan that reduces risk for others
- If you cannot return home safely, you will be supported to self-isolate in accordance with the COVID-19 Care in the Community program.
Check out these other stories from Better Health South:
Board of Directors Update – November 2021
Accessibility Week promotes disability awareness and challenges stereotypes
South reaches 90% vaccination rate
Dunedin Hospital relies on decades of technology to fight COVID-19
