What you need to know
New Zealand is now in a nationwide level 4 lockdown, with a total of five Covid-19 cases in the community confirmed to be the more transmissible Delta variant.
The four new cases announced Wednesday morning were all linked to the 58-year-old Devonport man – a tradesman – who tested positive on Tuesday. The four include a colleague of the man and close contacts, including a nurse who works at Auckland hospital.
The entire country is at the highest alert level for at least three days while Auckland and Coromandel, where the man spent the weekend, are at level 4 for at least seven days. A list of locations of interest can be found here.
Level 4 means it’s likely that the disease is not contained.
Testing and vaccinations
A full list of community testing centres can be found here. If you think you need a test, call Healthline first on 0800 358 5453. If you get tested, stay home until you have a negative test result. There is no charge to get a test, regardless of your citizenship, immigration status, nationality or medical insurance.
You will need to supply contact details to get a test. A National Health Index (NHI) number is good to have but not crucial.
The most common test is a swab to the back of your nose, which some people describe as a “tickle” and others say is “uncomfortable.”
The vaccination programme has been put on hold for 48 hours. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said it was to ensure the safety of frontline health workers, as officials tried to get to grips with how wide the latest community case may have spread.
Stay at home
People are instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential movement. Safe recreational activity is allowed in the local area but, given the Delta variant is suspected, even more caution is recommended from others to limit transmission.
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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33.7% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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65.2% No, I enjoy it
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Poll: How important is the ability to book a doctor’s appointment online?
Hi Neighbours
Here at The Doctors we would love to hear how you prefer to book your doctor’s appointments. With busy schedules, different people find different methods easier.
For some, online booking is very convenient, you can make an appointment anytime without needing to wait on the phone. Others still prefer calling the clinic and speaking to a real person, especially if they have specific questions about their visit.
Your feedback helps us understand what works best for our patients and how we can improve access to care.
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39.7% I prefer booking online whenever possible
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20.9% Online booking is helpful but not essential
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35.8% I prefer calling the clinic
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3.6% I didn’t know online booking was available
Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?
Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?
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76.3% Inside!
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23.7% On top!
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