Hawke’s Bay health officials are joining forces with Police and local authorities to ensure people adhere to Covid-19 Alert Level 4 Health Act restrictions and stay at home in their ‘bubbles’ this Easter.
Medical Officer of Health Dr Nick Jones said Hawke’s Bay DHB’s public health unit was working closely with Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Group and Police leading into the long weekend.
“We know many Hawke’s Bay people would normally head away to a beach batch or holiday home over Easter weekend, but these are not normal circumstances and road blocks or checkpoints will be in place.
“While it’s pleasing we have had no new Covid-19 cases reported today, we are still only part-way through the four-week lockdown period and there is absolutely no room for complacency.
“I know some people may think they are just transferring their bubble from one house to another but the more movement of people between areas the greater the risk of spread and we just can’t take that risk. People need to continue to take Level 4 lockdown seriously and stay home in their bubbles to help break the chain and save lives,” he said.
Dr Jones said the no-visitor policy at Hawke’s Bay District Health Board facilities remained in place over Easter and throughout the Level 4 lockdown period as an added measure to protect patients, staff and the wider community.
However, he urged anyone feeling unwell to call their GP or Healthline without hesitation, or in an Emergency to dial 111.
“It is very important people do not put their health to one side at this time. If you are feeling unwell or you have a medical emergency, do not hesitate to seek help,” he said.
Testing for Covid-19 was also strongly encouraged for anyone experiencing symptoms of cold or flu-like illness and one of the following: a cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, a runny nose or loss of smell. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should call their GP or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 where they can be referred to a community-based assessment centre for testing.
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