Expert’s caution on testing

A leading epidemiologist is reinforcing the message — to only get tested for Covid-19 if you have symptoms, or if you have a potential connection to a case.

There have been delays at community testing centres across Auckland and Tokoroa, due to high numbers of people wanting a swab.

Otago University professor Michael Baker says people shouldn’t be clogging the testing queues if they have no reason to be there. He says it’s going to create problems for people feeling unwell with symptoms, who have to wait hours to get tested.

If people are feeling worried — they should make an appointment with their GP, he says.

Tokoroa is preparing for a surge in demand for tests, after two new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the North Island town.

They’re connected to a family member of the South Auckland family which first tested positive this week.

South Waikato Mayor Jenny Shattock says they’re prepared to deal with it — they have the ability to do testing in the community — with a community testing centre set up for the weekend.

Meanwhile Air New Zealand is ramping up its Covid-19 testing for staff. All international crew coming back from high risk destinations have been required to be tested since June, and self isolate until they have their result.

Testing of border workers has also been ongoing — as they are considered high-risk.

A testing facility has been set up in Zone E of the airport — for all businesses based around the facility.