1. Firstly, please don't panic!
Isolated cases in New Zealand doesn't mean it will spread here, but we are preparing for that just in case.
2. Don't believe all you hear!
There are some far fetched and very irrational concepts out there - especially on social media. The Ministry of Health website is the point of truth for all Covid-19 info Go to: www.health.govt.nz
3. Travelling overseas?
Travel guidance and general information is available for you on the Ministry of Health website.
4. Returned from Overseas?
Depending on where you have been, you may be asked to self isolate. If you have been in or transited through mainland China, Iran, northern Italy or the Republic of Korea, or have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19 in the last 14 days, you need to self-isolate for 14 days from the date of departure or close contact, and register with Healthline on 0800 358 5453. The Healthline team will check in with you regularly.
5. Stay home and phone!
Please, if you are unwell with flu/fever like symptoms, do not come into Medical Practices or the ED. Phone first. You can call the practice/ED department, or call Healthline on 0800 358 5453. We will tell you if it is OK to come in, or we'll arrange to have you assessed outside of the waiting rooms to make sure any contagious illness is not spread to other patients and staff.
6. Handwashing is really important!
It sounds simple, but handwashing is one of the very best ways to stay well. Covid-19 is spread by coming into contact with the virus either directly (being coughed on) or by touching something surfaces that are infected. Washing your hands will help prevent spread - use soap and wash and dry well, or use hand sanitizer.
7. Catch that cough and sneeze!
Use tissues if you are coughing or sneezing and throw them into the rubbish immediately. If you don't have tissues, cough into the crook of your elbow. This will make sure that contaminated droplets don't spead across the airspace and make other people sick.
8. Be patient with us!
Our staff will be asking you questions about whether you have travelled overseas and what contact you may potentially have had with Covid-19. We are doing this to keep us ALL safe and well, and your cooperation is really appreciated.
So, stay home and phone, wash hands well, cough nicely and don't panic! Thank you for reading and sharing.
