XEC, a new Covid-19 sub-variant that has already been reported in about 30 other countries, reached Aotearoa NZ earlier in October.
We are heading towards the time of year again where we are likely going to see an increase in Covid-19 cases. Epidemiologists suspect we will have another wave over the summer period, as we did in winter.
The new sub-variant, XEC, is highly transmissible, and though it seems it may not be more harmful than Omicron, it has the ability to infect a lot of people quickly.
Remember that other people may be significantly more vulnerable than you.
The arrival of XEC in Aotearoa NZ is a timely reminder to remain vigilant about any possible Covid-19 symptoms and to test yourself if you suspect you may have it. Knowing whether you have Covid-19 or not is important, especially if you have vulnerable people in your whānau, social circle, or workplace.
You can check your Covid-19 immunisation status on your My Health Record account, and you can book in for your next Covid-19 booster vaccine through Book My Vaccine.
It's important to remember that even if you may not be significantly affected by a Covid-19 infection, you can then pass the virus on to other people who may be vulnerable and who may suffer severe health complications or even death from it. Over 4,400 people have died so far in Aotearoa NZ due to Covid-19 as an underlying or contributing factor.
So make sure you:
Stay up to date on your free Covid-19 booster vaccinations
Stay home if you are unwell
Test for Covid-19 if you are unwell
Keep wearing face-masks in busy/public places
Maintain good hand-washing and other hygiene precautions
Seek advice if you have any concerns
Where to seek advice...
If it is an emergency, call 111.
Funding from the Government for Covid-19 GP consultations ended in July. A reminder that there is now a charge for these, and a GP consultation is needed in order to get an antivirals prescription (if you are eligible).
For free health advice:
Healthline: 0800 611 116 (24/7, general health advice)
Plunketline: 0800 933 922 (24/7, child health advice)
Disability helpline: 0800 111 213 (health advice for the disabled community)
Vaccination healthline: 0800 282 926 (advice/support for Covid-19 vaccines)
For more Covid-19 information visit Te Whatu Ora's Covid-19 health pages here.
