Positive COVID-19 case in Waitara

There is a new positive COVID-19 case to report in Waitara today. The case is a child who is linked to the current two positive cases in New Plymouth.

Taranaki’s Public Health Unit has started case investigation work, however, early indications are that it is unlikely that there will be any locations of interest.

Medical Officer of Health, Dr Rob Weir, says the child has been at home during their infectious period, but there could still be close contacts.

“To have confidence that we don’t have community transmission, Māori Health providers and Taranaki DHB will be providing testing in the Waitara community on Friday and throughout the weekend (if required).

“We urge anyone in Waitara or the wider Taranaki region with symptoms – no matter how mild – to get tested, even if you’re vaccinated. Once tested, please remain isolated until you return a negative test result.”

Pop-up testing will be available on Friday at the Waitara War Memorial Hall on Memorial Place from 10am-1pm (hours will be extended if required).

Hours will also be extended at Taranaki Base Hospital’s testing centre on Friday from 8am-4pm. Hāwera hospital testing centre hours will remain the same from 10am-1pm.

Dr Weir also encourages whānau who are not vaccinated, to get it done promptly.

“Now is the time, as vaccination is your number one defence against COVID-19.”

For vaccination locations and times in Taranaki please visit TDHB - COVID-19 vaccine.