Southern’s Big Boost February – It’s time to get boosted!

People who are over 18, and who had their 2nd vaccination at least three months ago, should go and get their booster now.  

“With today’s confirmed Covid-19 cases in Southern, our community needs to band together to protect ourselves and each other. Some people may have been taking a ‘wait and see approach,’ however it takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to build protection against COVID-19, so now is the time to act,” Southern DHB COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Programme Lead Karl Metzler says. 

Providers across the Southern region have added additional vaccination capacity to meet expected demand for Big Boost February.

Information about clinics with significant appointments available this weekend are listed here.

“As a district, Southern did a fantastic job of getting our two shots, which provided us great protection against Delta. We need to do it again in February by getting our booster dose – because this is the best way to fight Omicron,” Southern DHB COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Programme Lead Karl Metzler says.  

Boosters help slow the spread of the virus, so more of us can stay well. And that helps free up our hospitals for other people who need care.  

To avoid queues, people are encouraged to book online at bookmyvaccine or by calling 0800 28 29 26.

It is also crucially important that we are all prepared for the possibility that our whānau or household is exposed to Covid over the coming weeks or months. Find out how you can prepare here.

Part of protecting what we love includes following public health guidance. This means wear a mask, practice social distancing, follow good hand hygiene and get tested if you are sick.

If you are experiencing cold or flu like symptoms, please get tested and self-isolate until you receive a negative test result.

For more information about testing and to find your closest testing location please visit the WellSouth website or call 0800 VIRUS19 (0800 847 8719)

Media enquiries: SDHB Communications, communications@southerndhb.govt.nz.