Whether you're travelling or staying home over summer, you can help keep yourself safe from COVID-19 by planning ahead. This will also help protect the whānau and communities you come in contact with.
When you're planning, remember that if you test positive for COVID-19 while away from home this summer, you can only travel back home by private or work vehicle.
Get vaccinated and boosted
The primary doses of the COVID-19 vaccine protect you against the virus, but this protection drops over time. A booster boosts your immunity and helps stop the spread of COVID-19. This protects you, your whānau and those who are vulnerable including our kaumātua. Keep up to date with your vaccinations and boosters.
Use our online map tool to find a vaccination centre near you.
Stock up and use RAT tests
Make sure you have enough RATs to test your whānau over the summer break.
- If you feel unwell, take a RAT test. If you test positive, you will need to self-isolate for 7 days.
- You can order FREE tests online at Requestrats.covid19.health.nz website.
Wear a mask if you can
Don’t be whakamā to wear a mask and encourage your whānau to wear a mask to keep them safe from COVID-19, especially around vulnerable whānau.
- Mask up in healthcare services, residential care, and some disability settings.
- You are encouraged to wear a mask in closed, crowded and confined spaces, especially on public transport.
Visit Covid19.govt.nz to find a testing site where you can get free masks.
Ask about antiviral medicine
Antiviral medicine can reduce the chance of becoming seriously māuiui if you test positive for COVID-19. Free antivirals are available if you:
- Are Māori 50 and over
- Have a severely weakened immune system
- Have three or more health conditions that put you at higher risk of getting seriously māuiui from COVID-19. These health conditions include common illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease.
Talk to your doctor, hauora provider or pharmacist to find out if antiviral medicine is right for you.
Use our online map tool to find a pharmacy near you that supplies antiviral medicine.
Spend time outside
COVID-19 spreads more easily indoors. Reduce your risk by spending time outdoors, especially when in groups and at kai time.
Visit Covid19.govt.nz and learn how to get good airflow in indoor spaces.
Remember your other prescriptions
As well as getting prepared for COVID-19, remember to get your usual prescriptions sorted now before you or your doctor go on holiday.
---
If you need more free health advice about COVID-19, call 0800 358 54 53 anytime.
