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COVID-19 (Novel coronavirus)

What do I need to know about  COVID-19 (novel coronavirus)?

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 first diagnosed in Wuhan, China is a respiratory illness that can be transmitted from person to person.  It has now been reported in other cities in China and other countries across the world.

It appears that most cases have mild to moderate illness.  In severe cases, the virus can cause pneumonia and severe acute respiratory infection.

COVID-19 questions and answers

What precautions can I take?

Please follow the basic principles to reduce the general risk of acute respiratory infections. These are:

  • regularly washing hands (for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap and dry thoroughly)
  • covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze
  • staying home if you are sick
  • avoiding close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms
  • if you feel unwell you should avoid public gatherings and events.

Information in New Zealand sign language

Number to call for health advice and information

The Ministry of Health have set up a dedicated 0800 number for any COVID-19 health advice and information and any questions you have about coronavirus, self-isolation etc.

The number is 0800 358 5453 – it is free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Or for international SIMs +64 9 358 5453

People calling that line will be able to talk with a member of the National Telehealth Service. They have access to interpreters.

Travel advisory 

If you have been in or transited through mainland China, Iran, northern Italy or the Republic of Korea, or have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19 in the last 14 days:

  • We ask that you self-isolate for 14 days from the date of departure or close contact
  • Please register your details with Healthline if you have not already (call 0800 358 5453 or +64 9 358 5453 for international SIM).

Travel information for people who have recently returned from mainland China, Iran, norther Italy or the Republic of Korea: COVID-19 - advice for travellers

Advice about self-isolation 

Self-isolation means avoiding situations where you could infect other people. This means all situations where you may come in contact with others, such as social gatherings, work, school, child care/pre-school centres, university, faith-based gatherings, aged care and healthcare facilities, prisons, sports gatherings, supermarkets, restaurants, shopping malls, and all public gatherings.

If you are a visitor to New Zealand, this means you should avoid sitting in a restaurant, participating in any type of tour group, or using public transport, including flights, buses, and trains between cities in New Zealand. 

If you are unsure if you should be self-isolating, please contact Healthline for free on 0800 358 5453 

Guidance for people returning to New Zealand from mainland China, Iran, northern Italy or the Republic of Korea, or have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19 in the last 14 about self isolation: Ministry of Health - self isolation

For more information

More information which is regularly updated can be found here: https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus