Access to Covid-19 testing for Lakes DHB residents is changing from today.

Since mid-March access to Covid-19 testing in the Lakes DHB region has been through a local call centre. This local assessment number is no longer in operation.

From today, Friday May 29, if you are unwell with Covid-19 symptoms, call the free Covid-19 Healthline number 0800 358 5453.

Free testing continues to be available to people with Covid-19 symptoms, but an appointment is now not necessary.

The symptoms of Covid-19 are similar to common illnesses such as a cold or influenza. You may have one or more of the following:

• a cough

• a high temperature

• shortness of breath

• a sore throat

• sneezing and runny nose

• temporary loss of smell.

The Covid-19 testing locations remain the same, in Rotorua this is the Energy Events Centre and in Taupo this is at the clubrooms at the AC Baths.

In Turangi, this service has been operated by Pihanga Health and this will not change.

Lakes DHB acknowledges Rotorua Area Primary Health Services (RAPHS) which alongside Lakes DHB has been operating the local 0800 number, to support local residents while the national call line was overloaded.

For all regular health concerns, people should continue to call their GP as they would in usual circumstances.

Opening hours for COVID-19 testing centres

Rotorua:

Energy Events Centre

Monday – Friday from 9am to 4pm

Saturday – Sunday & public holidays 9am to 12pm

Taupo:

AC Baths Clubrooms

Monday – Friday from 10am to 3.30pm

Saturday - Sunday & public holidays 9am to 12pm

Turangi:

Pihanga Health

Monday – Friday from 9am to 4pm

Closed weekends and public holidays

Protecting yourself and others from Covid-19

There are simple ways to protect yourself from Covid-19 and to prevent it from spreading, including staying home if you're unwell, physical distancing and basic hygiene measures.

Basic hygiene measures include; good hand hygiene, cough and sneeze etiquette, avoid touching your face, and clean surfaces.

· Wash your hands with soap and water often (for at least 20 seconds) and dry thoroughly. Use an alcohol-based sanitiser and rub hands together if soap and water are unavailable.

· Cough or sneeze into your elbow or cover your mouth and nose with tissues. Put them in a bin immediately.

· Avoid touching your face, including your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean. Surfaces may have infectious droplets.

· Clean surfaces regularly. This includes items frequently touch like door handles and phones.