As the next Covid-19 surge hits, Te Whatu Ora Southern urged people to be vigilant when out in the community and mask up to protect themselves, whanau and the vulnerable from catching Covid-19.

Southern’s aged care facilities are in the midst of the virus’ second wave. Southern has 22 aged care facilities with residents with Covid-19 infections and some have closed to visitors for the short term to protect vulnerable residents. 

Thirty-two aged care facilities have staff off sick because of Covid-19. 

A spokesperson said visitors need to check with facilities before visiting. 

“People wanting to visit loved ones are also asked not to do so if they are feeling unwell, have cold or flu-like symptoms, are household or close contacts of a positive case, or have tested positive themselves and are still in their isolation period. 

“We would ask that all people are kind and considerate when visiting these facilities. Staff are working above and beyond to provide the best care possible to all residents in extremely difficult circumstances.” 

Fifty four people are in hospitals across Southern (as at 9am July 19). Dunedin has 22 people; Southland 19; Gore one; Waitaki three; Lakes three and Dunstan six. None were ventilated or in ICU. 

There were 917 new cases in Southern in the previous day and 5903 total cases. 

Central has 454 active cases, and 64 new reported cases (as at 11.59pm July 18). 

 Map showing distribution of Covid-19 cases in Southern on July 19. PHOTO: Te Whatu Ora 

Yesterday, the Ministry of Health (Tuesday July 19) reported 21 additional deaths from Covid-19. Four deaths were from Southern. 

Medical officer of Health Dr Susan Jack said travellers need to be responsible for themselves.

“Travellers who test positive for Covid-19 while visiting the Southern district will be required to self-fund their seven day isolation period.”

It is recommended that anyone who chooses to travel should budget for a potential seven day isolation period or get travel insurance that covers Covid-19.

A Te Whatu Ora spokesperson said apart from mask wearing, a booster dose is your best form of defence against severe Covid-19 infection. 

“It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to build full protection against Covid-19, so the time to act is now.” 

Te Whatu Ora Southern has resumed twice weekly updates given the increase of Covid-19 cases and the prevalence of influenza and other winter illnesses.  

Find information from Te Whatu Ora about the booster here.