There are 19 new cases of Covid-19 reported in Central Otago and 131 cases in total today (Tuesday August 16). 

Across the Southern District there are 1,896 cases, 329 of them new.

There are a total of 225 cases reported in Queenstown Lakes; 104 in Clutha; 812 in Dunedin; 83 in Gore; 330 in Invercargill; 130 in Southland; and 81 in Waitaki.

There are 26 people hospitalised with Covid-19 in the region (none of them are in ICU).

Radio NZ reported that one person had died from Covid-19 in the Southern region. That brings the number of people who have died from Covid in the Southern region to 153.

 Te Whatu Ora (formerly the Southern District Health Board) reminded the public that it is important to have a plan ready in case you are required to isolate at home.

“You can be infected with Covid-19 more than once,” Te Whatu Ora advised. “Many people throughout Southern and Aotearoa are now discovering this.”

Te Whatu Ora said it was more important than ever to wear a mask when out in public.  

“Wearing a mask is the easiest way you can protect yourself, your whānau, and the vulnerable members of your community from getting Covid-19.”  

If you have questions about Covid-19, self-isolation, or what you need to do if you test positive, please call Healthline on 0800 358 5453.  

If you are self-isolating and require welfare support such as help getting groceries, please call 0800 512 337 Monday-Friday 8am-6pm and Saturday/Sunday/public holidays 8am-1pm.  

For help accessing Covid-19 testing in the Southern region and to find your nearest testing centre please call the WellSouth call centre on 0800 VIRUS19 (0800 847 8719).