Covid 19 coronavirus: Northland DHB reminds people of Covid 19 testing criteria

Multimedia Journalist·Northern Advocate·

29 Mar, 2020 07:00 PM3 mins to read

Only those with coronavirus symptoms will be tested at pop up stations in Northland that started a week ago. Photo / John Stone<

Only those who develop symptoms of coronavirus will be tested - not necessarily people who came into contact with someone who has Covid-19, the Northland District Health Board has reiterated.

Responding to concerns by Northlanders who went to the testing stations but were refused a test, Northland DHB spokeswoman Paula Martin said the testing stations were designed to test people who have had symptoms or had travelled and become unwell and developed symptoms.

Symptoms include fever or at least one of the following symptoms- shortness of breath, cough or sore throat.

• Covid19.govt.nz: The Government's official Covid-19 advisory website

The community-based testing centres have, as of Thursday, tested 316 people since they opened a week ago.

Martin said 25 swabs were taken on Wednesday and more than 150 people visited the testing centres since they opened on March 20.

The seven testing centres across Whangārei, Kaipara, the Far North and the Mid North can be found on the Northland DHB website.

"We understand that many people are worried. Our community have been incredibly supportive of our staff. We are able to provide information in a hand-out as well, which they can take home and read to explain why they were not tested," Martin said.

"Those people that are in close contact with a confirmed case are identified and closely monitored by public health. They remain at home in quarantine and have daily contact to check they are all right. If they become unwell, testing is provided."

Anyone who suspected they might have Covid-19 can go to a testing centre, call Healthline on 0800 611 116, or call their GP.

Martin said people visiting testing centres should wait in their car for a staff member to approach them. Test results were expected after five days.

Meanwhile, the Northland DHB is looking for more nurses or those already in the system to work extra hours as their services may be needed within the acute setting or to support primary care.

Those who are not working because their annual practising certificate has expired are being told the New Zealand Nursing Council can quickly issue one with a condition that restricts them from working in pandemic-related areas. The renewal will be valid until the end of this year.

Support and orientation will be provided in all clinical areas.