Positive wastewater result in Tairāwhiti

Three new cases of Covid-19 in Hawke’s Bay brings the number of active cases in the region to nine. A positive wastewater sample has also been detected in Tairāwhiti.

Hawke’s Bay DHB reported the new cases, which are linked to a cluster in Hastings associated with the Tu Step Fitness Class held at Ascende Church on Tuesday and Thursday last week.

That cluster is now at eight. Another case in Hastings is likely to have contracted Covid-19 out of the region.

In a statement, DHB medical officer of health Dr Rachel Eyre said more locations of interest may be announced.

“Anyone associated with the Tu Step Fitness Class and who was there on the dates and times notified on Ministry of Health’s locations of interest page, must follow public health advice.”

Eyre called for anyone with cold or flu symptoms to get tested, even if they were vaccinated.

She said vaccination was the best protection against Covid-19, and people eligible for their booster dose should get this done for an added layer of protection, or get their first or second vaccination if they haven’t already.

“People vaccinated against Covid-19 are far less likely to need hospital care if they get the virus.”

Locations of interest so far include the Jetts gym, Italian restaurant Sazio and McDonald’s in Hastings.

Tairāwhiti

Earlier, a positive wastewater sample of Covid-19 was detected in Tairāwhiti.

There are currently no confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the region.

However, this result could mean there is someone with Covid-19 in the community.

Another sample was taken on Tuesday and results are expected today.

The region had three cases at the end of last year, but all have since recovered.

Tairāwhiti has the second lowest vaccination rate in the country, with 88 percent of the eligible population having had two doses.