The number of COVID-19 tests done in Tairāwhiti has increased recently.
This is to be expected as there are more respiratory infections following the end of lockdown.
Only people with symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, sore throat, breathlessness or fever are being tested
- If you are unwell call your GP, they will assess over the phone and advise you what your next step should be.
- This may be an appointment with your GP, a referral to a nurse testing service, or advice to stay home until you are well.
- If you are referred to the nurse testing service, your GP will send a referral through, and you don’t have to do anything.
- The testing service staff will ring you to give you an appointment time and directions on how to get there. Please be patient they will get you in as soon as possible. (Don’t come without an appointment, they will not be able to see you). This service operates Monday to Friday only.
- Your GP will contact you with your swab results usually within 2-3 days.
- People with sore throats, in particular, must seek advice to ensure they are tested and treated to prevent rheumatic fever.
- Unwell people should stay away from work, school, and public places until they are well again.
It is important to note that Tairāwhiti still has the country's highest rate of testing for COVID-19.