Covid 19 coronavirus: Test stations will be busy, prepare to be patient

Capacity at Auckland’s six community test centers has increased with more staff and hours, but people are cautioned to wait longer than usual.

North Region Health Coordination Center Director Margie Apa said the health sector in Auckland is well prepared to respond to new community cases, but is asking people to prepare to be patient if they want to get tested tomorrow.

“New cases are a concern, but we expected to see more community cases in Auckland at some point in this pandemic, and we are well prepared.

“We have successfully responded to outbreaks like this before in Tāmaki Makarau. Together we can do it again.”

A Year 9 student from Papatoetoe High and her parents tested positive for Covid this weekend. A testing station will be installed at the South Auckland school for students, staff and their families.

The positive tests resulted in Auckland moving to a level 3 lockdown, which means that people must stay home unless they are essential workers. Schools and nurseries are closed to all children, in addition to essential workers, and meetings are restricted to groups of no more than 10.

Apa said that all health services are considered essential and will continue as usual with an additional focus on infection prevention control measures and physical distancing of patients.

City hospitals and residential care centers for the elderly are updating their visitor policies and other protocols to protect the most vulnerable.

“Our hospitals will continue planned care, including clinics and surgery, and we ask patients to keep their appointments unless instructed otherwise by their specialist or public health,” Apa said.

“If you don’t feel good about Covid-19 symptoms, call your contact at the hospital or clinic before going for an appointment. They will tell you what to do.

“We are working closely with the Ministry of Health and other agencies to ensure that everything possible is done to contain the spread of Covid-19 in our communities.”

Apa said the key message was for everyone in Auckland to be vigilant.

“The best defense against Covid-19 is to follow the same actions we have taken during the pandemic. Maintain good hand hygiene. Stay home if you are sick. Keep a log of your movements to help us with contact tracing. Maintain physical distancing.

“If you have any symptoms, get a free test at your local doctor, Urgent Care Clinic or one of our community testing centers. If you are not sure, call your local doctor or health line. We recommend Please call ahead if they are planning to see your practice.

“The response from the entire community that has served us well during the pandemic remains more important than ever and we thank everyone for continuing to do their part.”

General practice and urgent care clinics are also prepared for increased volume of testing. The mobile test units are on standby to be rapidly deployed at locations throughout the city as directed by public health.

To find test locations in Greater Auckland, visit www.arphs.health.nz/covid19test. For up-to-date information on all test locations, call Healthline (0800 358 5453) or visit www.healthpoint.co.nz/covid-19/