SDHB COVID-19 Daily Update 24 Feb 2022

We have implemented this daily COVID-19 media release to update case numbers and inform the media and public of the situation across the Southern region. 
 
Key Messages 

• There are high numbers of COVID-19 positive people in Southern particularly in Dunedin and Queenstown. Please be vigilant when out in the community. COVID-19 is widespread, and we all run the risk of being exposed. 
• Demand on lab capacity throughout Southern has eased with the introduction of RATs. Please be patient and continue to self-isolate while you wait for your results. PCR results are currently taking about 2 ½ days to be reported, with the longest wait time being just over 3 days.  
• Please only get tested if you have symptoms or are a household contact of a confirmed case. We need to ensure those who are symptomatic, or a close contact, get access to testing.  
• If you receive a text notification that you are positive, please do the online survey in the link you receive in the text message as soon as possible. This will ensure you can receive the appropriate care and support when you need it. 
• If you test positive on a RAT test you do not need to have that confirmed by PCR – you are a case. Please update your My Covid Record with your result. Call 0800 222 478 if you need any support to do that.  
• At 11.59 pm tonight New Zealand moves to phase 3 of our Omicron response. There will be changes throughout the country in the coming days. Please visit the Ministry of Health website for more information about the phase 3 response.  

Testing locations can be found on the WellSouth website. 
 
If you have concerns about COVID-19 symptoms, please call your general practice or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 at any time. If you are very unwell or having breathing difficulties, please call 111 immediately.  
 
If you are self isolating and require well fare support such as help getting groceries, please call 0800 512 337.  

Please note, the Ministry of Health’s daily reported cases may differ slightly from those reported at a DHB or local public health unit level. This is because of different reporting cut off times and the assignment of cases between regions, for example when a case is tested outside their usual region of residence. Total numbers will always be the formal daily case tally as reported to the WHO. 
 
Wednesday 23 February saw 305 new PCR-positive and 290 new RAT-positive cases in Southern according to Ministry of Health records.  
 
We are unable to provide the territorial authority for RATs. 
 
With the introduction of RAT testing, comparison of Southern case figures to Ministry of Health case figures may become less reliable.  
 
Key media contacts 

• For questions about COVID-19 case numbers and vaccination, contact SDHB: communications@southerndhb.govt.nz
• For questions about COVID-19 testing and case monitoring in the community, contact WellSouth: communications@wellsouth.org.nz