Close contact of Napier Covid-19 case tests positive, locations of interest revealed
A close contact of the positive Covid-19 case notified in Napier yesterday has returned a positive result for Covid-19.
The second Napier case will be officially included within the Ministry of Health’s tally tomorrow, 1 January.
Hawke’s Bay District Health Board Medical Officer of Health Dr Nick Jones said both cases are isolating with appropriate health and welfare supports in place. All known close contacts identified are also isolating and undergoing testing.
Dr Jones said public health officials are continuing investigations into the possible source of infection, as well as identifying any locations of interest.
At this stage, there are three locations of interest identified by public health that are linked to the Napier cases, and were visited on Friday, December 24. These are New Century Bakery Taradale (between 1pm and 2pm), Paper Plus Taradale (between 2.30pm and 4pm), and Bin Inn Taradale (between 2pm and 3.30pm).
The locations are considered as "casual exposure" locations meaning people who visited these locations at the dates/times listed should self-monitor for Covid-19 symptoms for 10 days from the day of exposure. If symptoms develop, get a test and stay at home until you get a negative test result.
Dr Jones said the locations identified posed no ongoing risk to shoppers and he encouraged people to continue to support the businesses in question.
“These are casual exposure locations at certain dates and times. There is no ongoing risk at these stores to shoppers outside of these windows, so I encourage people to shop normally and continue to support your local businesses,” he said.
As standard procedure, any additional locations of interest will be added to the Ministry of Health’s webpage if, and when, they are confirmed by public health.
Dr Jones said reminded people to get tested for Covid-19 if experiencing cold or flu symptoms, no matter how mild, or if fully vaccinated.
Drive-in testing centres and booked appointments are available throughout the holiday period with good capacity,” he said. They include:
Dr Jones also urged anyone unvaccinated to get protected from Covid-19 and have their vaccine as soon as possible. Additionally, people double vaccinated and eligible to get their booster vaccination should get this done for an added layer of protection.
“Getting vaccinated is your best protection against Covid-19 vaccinated people far less likely to require hospital care if getting the virus.”
For a full list of vaccination clinics www.ourhealthhb.nz or www.bookmyvaccine.nz
