Two Hawke's Bay close contacts test negative, continue to isolate
Two close contacts of a positive COVID-19 that visited Hawke's Bay last week have both returned a negative day six test result and continue to isolate.
The Ministry of Health confirmed this afternoon that one of the 102 new community cases linked to the current outbreak undertook permitted travel to the region on Friday, October 15.
While they were not a confirmed case during their travel and are currently isolating at home in the Waikato, it has been determined that they were likely infectious while they were visiting Hawke’s Bay, A Ministry of Health spokeswoman says.
She says the contact with the case was made outside of Wairoa. Of the two close contacts, one resides in Wairoa in northern Hawke’s Bay and the other in Napier.
Hawke’s Bay District Health Board Medical Officer of Health Dr Nick Jones thanked the close contacts for following public health advice and doing the right thing.
"Upon this person returning a positive COVID-19 result back in Waikato, two close contacts were identified in Hawke’s Bay and rapidly tested. Results of these close contacts returned negative (day 6 test from date of contact)."
"They are not displaying any symptoms but will remain in isolation for the full 14 days with a further test at day 12."
Dr Jones said investigations continue and people should keep an eye on the Ministry of Health’s Locations of Interest page, which will be updated if any locations in Hawke’s Bay are identified. The DHB would also actively share any new information to ensure the public were well informed.
“It is reassuring negative results have been returned at the six day mark which is good news.”
“However, today’s news is a timely reminder for Hawke’s Bay residents to continue to follow Level 2 COVID-19 advice when out and about – wear a face mask, sign in to locations using your COVID-19 tracer app or personal record, and maintain good social distancing. If you are unwell with any symptoms, get tested.
“If you are not yet vaccinated, it remains your best protection against COVID-19 and I strongly urge people unvaccinated to get protected and get it done.”
Vaccinations are regularly available across Hawke’s Bay and people can book a time via bookmyvaccine.nz
Contact tracers are currently working with public health staff on details and please also keep an eye on the Ministry’s Locations of Interest page in the event locations in Hawke’s Bay arise.
