The best thing we can do to be prepared for Omicron is to get a booster. People who have had a booster are much less likely to require hospital care if they catch COVID-19. Around 56 percent of those eligible for a booster already have one, but we need to get that number higher. If it has been four months since your second shot, please go to https://bookmyvaccine.covid19.health.nz to make a booking or walk-in to a vaccination centre.
Additionally, for those of you with tamariki, all children aged 5 to 11 can now be vaccinated and parents and caregivers should seek out information to help them make that decision. Already around 20 percent of children aged 5-11 have been vaccinated or are booked to do so.
Finally, whānau you need to make sure you are prepared for a period of isolation at home in the event they catch COVID-19, or they are a close contact. Picking up some key supplies now and making sure you have a buddy who can deliver anything else you need while you’re isolating is a good idea. Information on how to make a plan for if you or a member of your household catches COVID-19 is available on the Unite Against COVID-19 website.
