Cities possible isolation locations

Coronavirus isolation and quarantine facilities are being considered in Dunedin and Invercargill, instead of Queenstown.

Southern District Health Board chief executive Chris Fleming said the board had been working with the Ministry of Health and the Defence Force, and had proposed Invercargill as an alternative to Queenstown because it offered stronger health infrastructure.

Dunedin would be the board’s first choice as an isolation location, followed by Invercargill, he said.

The board was preparing for the eventuality of managing a health response and expected to receive a directive in the next week or two.

‘‘I think it’s important that southern plays its part when it’s asked,’’ he said, adding that Kiwis living overseas had the right to return home.

While he was confident that the All of Government team was listening to the board’s concerns, Fleming said: ‘‘We will need to find a way to support the decisions that are made, and this will factor into our planning.’’

Southern DHB and WellSouth were still clarifying their respective responsibilities, but would handle testing, monitoring for symptoms and managing any health needs, he said.

A joint planning team has been set up to work through the process.

Public Health South has also developed a plan for Queenstown, should Government decide to use it as an isolation location.

The board had adequate supply of PPE and could request more from the ministry, if needed, Fleming said.