What you need to do in Omicron plan phase 2

This week New Zealand has moved to a new phase of our Omicron plan. Here’s what you need to know.

● The period of self-isolation for people who test positive reduces from 14 to 10 days. The period of self-isolation for close contacts reduces from 10 to seven days. This will apply to everyone, including those in MIQ.

● Those who live in the same household as a confirmed case will also immediately self-isolate for 10 days. A test on day eight is required. This will mean the household can complete isolation at the same time as the positive case, if all tests are negative.

● The close contact exemption scheme begins from Wednesday, this scheme helps protect our supply chains and keep our critical services running. Under the scheme, asymptomatic, vaccinated, close contacts can keep going to work instead of isolating if they return a daily negative rapid antigen test. In addition, close contacts who work alone can continue to operate in a bubble of one, eg farmers and builders. You can find out more about the close contact exemption scheme at http://www.business.govt.nz/.../close-contactexemption

● Digital tools and automation will be used be to speed-up interactions with health services eg a positive case, at the start of self-isolation, will fill out an online form for themselves and their household contacts that will help health services work out how much support they need. Nondigital alternatives will be in place for those who require them. What you need to do now:

● Get a booster if you haven’t already, it is still the best thing you can do to protect yourself against Omicron. With a booster, people are much less likely to get seriously ill and need hospital care. Book your booster online at BookMyVaccine.nz

● Get prepared for Omicron. Download your Covid-19 checklist: covid19.govt.nz/beprepared. Can read more about the response to Omicron at www. covid19.govt.nz