Covid-19: People linked to north Auckland cases wait days for results, have to be retested
A number of people told to get tested because they had visited the same locations as two new Covid-19 cases in north Auckland had to be retested when no records of their results could be found days later.
Silverdale Medical Centre executive manager Ranyani Perera told Stuff staff received about a dozen calls from people tested at the Victor Eaves Park pop-up site, in Ōrewa, last Thursday or Friday who hadn’t received results up to four days later.
Among those who faced delays, was a Silverdale woman, who still didn't have her test result on Monday. She eventually had to make her own phone calls to get her result, despite being assured her test would be processed as a priority because she was considered a "casual plus contact" of the people infected.
“Selfishly, I wanted my test results, so I could go out. But you’ve potentially got this whole community of people who [authorities are] wanting to isolate five days later. If I wasn’t a good citizen and the risk was higher, I would have potentially been walking around Auckland all long weekend with Covid.”
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
.
Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
-
84% Yes
-
14.7% No
-
1.3% Other - I'll share below
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.