Sunday February 13
There are 810 new cases of Covid-19 today.
This is a big increase on the 454 new cases reported yesterday. The Ministry of Health said this jump was to be expected as Omicron spreads in our communities.
"Our expectation is that cases will continue to increase over the coming weeks and we’re asking people to do all they can to slow the spread of the virus and protect themselves and their whānau."
These steps are:
- get vaccinated
- stay home if you're unwell
- wear a mask
- physical distancing
- scanning in using the NZ Covid Tracer app
The most common symptoms of Omicron are a sore or scratchy throat, and a runny nose. Anyone with cold or flu symptoms is advised to get a test and stay home until they receive a negative test.
Of today's cases, 13 are in Northland, 623 in Auckland, 81 in Waikato, 11 in Bay of Plenty, 11 in Lakes, 8 in Hawke’s Bay, 3 in MidCentral, 6 in Whanganui, 5 in Taranaki, 3 in Tairāwhiti, 15 in Wellington, 10 in Hutt Valley, 2 in Nelson Marlborough, 3 in Canterbury, 2 in South Canterbury and 14 in Southern.
In today's statement the Ministry of Health said there are rumours of positive cases at the protests at Parliament Grounds in Wellington. There are no confirmed cases linked to the protests.
There are 32 people in hospital, with none in intensive care.
The average age of people currently in hospital is 62.
Yesterday, there were 22,196 tests carried out.
96 percent of New Zealand's eligible population have had the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, 95 percent have had a second dose and 59 percent have had a booster.
There were 49,523 booster shots given yesterday.
There are 18 new cases at the border.
Click here for a list of updated locations of interest.
Top image: A used disposable face mask in a puddle during rain. Photo: iStock
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