Figures Show A Third Of Taranaki Population Has Had COVID-19

The latest COVID-19 figures show that more 41,400 people,
approximately a third of the Taranaki population, have had
COVID-19, but this number could be higher according to Dr
Catherine Jackson, Te Whatu Ora Taranaki medical officer of
health.

“It’s important to note that this is the
number of reported cases only and we anticipate that the
actual infection rate is higher, as we know many people do
not report positive test results or test for COVID-19 at
all.

“We urge everyone who tests for COVID-19 to
report the results of their rapid antigen test (RAT). This
is essential for letting know your GP and the COVID Hub know
you have COVID so you can quickly access medical and welfare
support if you need it. This is especially important for
people who are at high risk of getting severe COVID-19 who
may be eligible for medicines they can take at home that can
reduce the severity of illness and help them to avoid being
admitted to hospital.”

Results can be recorded online
through My
Covid Record or by calling the helpline, 0800 222
478.

Dr Jackson says with a month left of winter we
can still expect to see COVID-19 cases and other respiratory
illnesses in circulation.

“Recent modelling suggests
that from August COVID-19 cases may remain high, and could
be above 200 a day until September. This is just one
scenario that could happen – again, testing and reporting
COVID-19 results helps us better understand how we are
tracking and what may come next.

“Part of the reason
for the increase in COVID-19 cases is because of the BA.5
variant in circulation, which is more transmissible than
previous variants. The winter season and conditions also
make it easier for many respiratory illnesses to
spread.”

The most important thing everyone in the
community can do is keep up with healthy habits.

“The
more layers of protection we put in place – particularly
vaccinations, but also mask wearing, washing your hands,
social distancing and staying home from work and school if
you’re māuiui/sick – the more we can reduce the spread of
respiratory illnesses,” says Dr Jackson.

Anyone who
needs a flu or COVID-19 vaccination should visit their
pharmacy, Māori health provider, drop into the New Plymouth
and Hāwera Vaccination Centres (open every day), or one the
many Winter Wellness Clinics happening every week in
communities throughout Taranaki.

Visit www.tdhb.org.nz/covid19/vaccine.shtml
to find your nearest drop-in vaccination clinic
location.

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