Waka Toa Ora

Have a safe as summer

The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) recently released the weather predictions for summer and it’s looking pretty good. Most of the motu will experience average or above average temperatures, without excessive rainfall.

A warm and not too wet summer will be all the encouragement most of us will need to travel, socialise and spend a lot of time outdoors. We need to be conscious of the good health habits that we need to maintain over summer to stay safe as well as playing our part in minimising the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19.

Planning ahead in case you or someone you know gets COVID-19 is crucial.

Te Whatu Ora Waitaha has some helpful advice for your summer...

Maintain good health habits

• Stay up to date with your vaccinations.
• Cover up in the sun – hat, sunscreen, clothing and shade.
• Be water safe - whether swimming, boating, fishing or enjoying water sports.
• Stay hydrated and don’t forget your kids and pets too! Alternate alcoholic beverages with glasses of water.
• On very hot days, check in on any older people, disabled people or those who may be at risk in the heat.
• Maintain basic hygiene practices such as coughing and sneeze into your elbow, regularly (and thoroughly) washing or sanitising your hands, and keeping surfaces and objects clean - especially those you touch a lot.
• Take a RAT if you are unwell or have COVID-19 symptoms.
  If you test positive, report your result.

Plan ahead when travelling

• Take a kit with a supply of rapid antigen tests (RATs), hand sanitiser, masks, over the counter pain relief as well as your usual medications.
• Order RATs online or by phone (0800 222 478) and pick them up from your nearest collection site or arrange delivery (if eligible).
• Take an extended supply of your prescription medications to cover you beyond the length of our planned trip – just in case!
• Think about where and how you might isolate or how you will get home quickly should you test positive for COVID-19.

Plan ahead for your holiday parties and gatherings

• If you’re hosting events over the summer try to ensure they are held outdoors or in a well ventilated space - with windows and doors open to allow good air flow.
• If you have to be in a crowded or enclosed inside space, it’s a good idea to wear a mask.
• Encourage good hand hygiene by making sanitiser available at your events.
• Do not attend events or gatherings if you are unwell and ask your guests to do the same.
• If someone in your household is unwell, do not host a gathering in your home.
• Take a RAT before attending an event. It’s okay to ask your friends and whānau to do the same before coming to your function.