Source: Covid-19 New Zealand Government Announcements
Update from the Ministry of Health
The sharp increase in new cases today is another reminder that, as expected, the highly transmissible Omicron variant is now spreading in our communities as we have seen in other countries.
Our expectation is that cases will continue to increase over the coming weeks and we’re asking people to do all they can to slow the spread of the virus and protect themselves and their whānau.
The most important step anyone can take to prepare for Omicron is to book their vaccine, whether it’s their first, second or booster. Every dose counts and lowers the chances of getting very sick and being hospitalised.
We are also continuing to remind people to do the basics well – staying home if you’re unwell, wearing a mask, physical distancing and scanning in using the NZ COVID Tracer app when you’re out and about.
Anyone with cold or flu symptoms that could be COVID-19 is asked to get a test and isolate at home until a negative result is returned.
The most common early symptoms of the Omicron variant are a sore or scratchy throat, and a runny nose. Even if you develop a small sniffle, please get a test.
The Big Boost
Thank you to the more than 214,000 New Zealanders who have so far rolled up their sleeves to get their booster shot during ‘The Big Boost’ – our national week of action where we’re making it as easy as possible to get your booster, with pop-up vaccination centres and extended opening hours.
February is a critical month to get New Zealand boosted – and we’re encouraging every New Zealander aged 18 and over who had their 2nd vaccination at least 3 months ago to get their booster as soon as possible. You can access a Pfizer booster dose in the same way as any other dose, booking online via www.BookMyVaccine.nz visiting a walk-in or drive-thru vaccination clinic, or by calling the COVID Vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26 (8am to 8pm, 7 days a week).
Update on today’s COVID-19 cases | health.govt.nz (external link)
