COVID-19 Still a Threat: Kiwi Health Experts Urge Kiwis to Stay Alert and Protect Themselves
Despite the easing of restrictions and a sense of returning to normal, health experts in New Zealand are strongly advising Kiwis to remain vigilant against COVID-19. While the pandemic's impact has lessened, the virus continues to circulate, and new variants pose an ongoing risk to public health. This isn't about panic; it's about sensible precautions to protect ourselves, our whānau (families), and our communities.
Why the Continued Caution?
Recent data shows that COVID-19 hasn't disappeared. We’re seeing seasonal upticks, and new subvariants are emerging, some of which may be more transmissible or evade immunity gained from previous infections or vaccinations. The long-term effects of COVID-19, often referred to as 'long COVID,' remain a concern for many who have contracted the virus. Furthermore, vulnerable populations – including kaumātua (elderly), those with underlying health conditions, and those who are immunocompromised – are still at higher risk of severe illness.
Key Recommendations from Health Professionals:
- Mask Up When Necessary: While mask mandates have largely been lifted, health experts recommend wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings, on public transport, or when feeling unwell. A good quality mask (N95, KN95, or P2) offers the best protection.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water, or using hand sanitiser, remains a crucial preventative measure. Covering coughs and sneezes with your elbow is also important.
- Stay Home If You’re Sick: If you’re feeling unwell, especially with symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, or fatigue, stay home and avoid contact with others. Get tested for COVID-19.
- Get Vaccinated and Boosted: Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself from severe illness, hospitalisation, and death from COVID-19. Stay up-to-date with booster doses as recommended by public health authorities.
- Ventilate Indoor Spaces: Opening windows and ensuring good ventilation in indoor spaces can help reduce the risk of transmission.
- Be Mindful of Others: Consider the health and wellbeing of those around you. If you know someone is vulnerable, take extra precautions to protect them.
Looking Ahead: Adapting to Living with COVID-19
COVID-19 is likely to remain a part of our lives for the foreseeable future. The focus now is on managing the risks and adapting to living with the virus. This means staying informed about public health advice, taking personal responsibility for our health, and supporting our communities.
“We’re not asking people to go back into lockdown,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a leading epidemiologist in Auckland. “But we do want people to be aware of the risks and to take sensible precautions. A little bit of vigilance can go a long way in protecting ourselves and others.”
For the latest information and updates on COVID-19 in New Zealand, visit the Health.govt.nz website.
