As winter approaches, Covid-19 once again takes center stage with the emergence of new variants and a rise in case numbers, prompting concerns and discussions across New Zealand.
Recent surveillance data indicates a concerning trend, with virus levels in wastewater reaching their highest point since December 2022. Additionally, hospital admissions due to Covid-19 have been on the rise, with close to 40 individuals being admitted daily for treatment.
One notable development has been the emergence of a subset of variants known as “FLiRT,” descendants of JN.1, which accounted for over 40 percent of all sequenced Covid viruses in wastewater, according to recent Environmental Science and Research (ESR) data.
As the nation gears up for Budget 2024, it’s crucial to review the current landscape of Covid restrictions, vaccine availability, testing protocols, and more.
Government mandates related to Covid, including vaccine mandates, have been lifted since September 2022. Moreover, legal requirements for self-isolation post a positive test have also been dropped.
Despite these changes, initiatives such as free rapid antigen tests (RATs) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests continue to be available, albeit with challenges reported in accessing RATs in some areas.
Concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of tests against new subvariants, but experts assure that both PCR tests and RATs remain reliable, albeit with differences in sensitivity.
Furthermore, provisions for free medical masks and antiviral medicines have been extended for specific groups, alongside the ongoing availability of Covid vaccinations for individuals aged 5 and above.
Looking ahead to Budget 2024, uncertainties loom regarding the continuation of free RATs, masks, and vaccines, as well as the allocation of funds for Covid-related expenditures within the broader pharmaceutical budget.
The issue of long Covid has also garnered attention, prompting calls for government intervention and support.
In terms of self-isolation rules, while no legal requirement exists post-positive test, recommendations for isolation and testing persist, with emphasis on employer support for affected individuals.
Amidst these discussions, Covid remains a notifiable disease, ensuring ongoing monitoring and response mechanisms to mitigate public health risks. However, there are no immediate plans to remove it from the schedule.
As New Zealand navigates the complexities of the ongoing pandemic, Budget 2024 holds the promise of providing clarity and direction in the nation’s long-term Covid strategy.
