Covid-19 is in the national headlines again with Omicron case numbers rising to more than 20,800 in the past week, while reinfections and hospitalisations are also inching up. 

Locally, Central residents need to remain alert for Covid-19 symptoms as the virus has made its way back into several primary schools; cases are spreading amongst tamariki, and the vulnerable older population.

Hospitality businesses already struggling for staff due to the tight labour market are under the pump, the Central App knows some local cafes have had to reduce operating hours to manage with smaller numbers of staff available to work.

Yesterday (Wednesday November 8) the Ministry of Health announced 3,912 new daily cases across Aotearoa.

Graph showing curve of increasing new Covid-19 cases reported each day. PHOTO: Ministry of Health (November 7, 1pm update) 

There are 1,571 active cases in the Southern district, and there have been 1,575 new cases in the past week.

Te Whatu Ora - Southern has launched a ‘Spring Fling’ activity campaign to keep vaccinations top of mind.

Southern Covid-19 vaccination programme lead Karl Metzler said keeping up to date with your vaccinations, and getting a booster or second booster if you’re eligible, is the best way to protect yourself against severe illness from Covid-19.

“The more of us who stay well, the less disruption in our communities, businesses and our health sector so we can all enjoy seeing friends and whānau, travelling and celebrating upcoming holidays.”

The activity drive in the lead up to summer is to support people in getting up to date with their vaccinations. This includes the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is available free for tamariki and also for some adults who may have missed vaccination.

Planned activity includes pop-up vaccination events, appearances at community events, and working with providers across the region to increase their capacity.

Many of these locations will also offer free vaccinations against influenza; MMR; tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough; and human papillomavirus. Availability will vary by location and will be promoted in advance.

All vaccines (except the shingles vaccine) can be given at the same time or immediately before or after the Covid-19 vaccine.

Find a clinic near you, including pop-up events and walk-in clinics, here or call 0800 28 29 26.

Upcoming Central locations are:

• Roxburgh Medical Centre, 65 Scotland Street; 12+ years old on Wednesday and Thursday, 11am - 12pm for walk-ins only. For 5+ year old on Wednesday, 3pm - 4pm for walk-ins as well. 
• Alexandra Family Medical, 18 Limerick Street; 12+ years old Monday to Friday, 9am - 4pm for both bookings and walk-ins.
• Health Central, 93 Tarbert Street; 12+ years old on Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm for bookings and walk-ins. For 5-11 years old on Monday to Friday, 3pm - 5pm also for bookings and walk-ins.

Alternatively check out BookMyVaccine to see all available appointments near you. Order FREE RATs to test for Covid-19 here.  

Stay updated with national news on Covid-19: The government has said there are no plans currently for another booster round for the general population in an interview with RNZ.