With summer here, it’s natural to want to spend time with family and friends. However, it’s important to take some protective measures to ensure that we all stay safe and healthy.

Below are some of our top tips for a healthy summer holiday:

• If you feel unwell, it’s best to stay at home or wherever you are on holiday. Please avoid traveling, attending gatherings, or taking part in activities. If you are feeling sick, stay away from people who have a greater risk of becoming severely ill, such as babies, older adults, and people with suppressed immune systems or disabilities.
• If you experience cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms, we encourage you to take a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) and report the results in My COVID Record. If the result is positive, you will receive the support and advice you need.
• If you’re concerned about catching an illness, consider limiting the amount of time you spend in enclosed, crowded, or confined spaces. Wearing a mask that fits well can decrease your risk of contracting illness in crowded spaces. When visiting healthcare facilities, we highly recommend wearing a mask to protect those who are most vulnerable.
• Please maintain healthy habits by washing your hands frequently with warm soapy water for 20 seconds, or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• When coughing or sneezing, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow. Then, dispose of the tissue in a bin and sanitise/wash your hands.
• It is essential to clean surfaces and objects regularly — especially those that are frequently touched. Additionally, let fresh air in by opening windows and doors when you’re inside.
• Please take your medication, such as preventers for asthma or allergies, as prescribed, ensuring you stay well and avoid flare-ups.
• We encourage each of you to check in frequently on family, neighbors, and friends, particularly those who live alone, or who are at a higher risk of getting very sick.
• Protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays by being SunSmart: Slip, Slop, Slap, and Wrap. Check your local sun protection alerts every day by visiting https://www.sunsmart.org.nz/ resources/sun-protection-alert/.
• The safety of popular swimming sites across the motu is tested for harmful levels of bacteria or cyanobacteria (toxic algae) each summer. When heading out for a swim at your favorite lake, river, or beach, look for water quality signs or visit the Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA) – The homepage website’s “Can I Swim Here?” section at www.lawa.org.nz for the most up-to-date information.
• If you, or someone in your whānau, need advice or help, such as if you feel unwell or get injured, please contact your local GP, urgent care clinic, pharmacy, or hauora provider. You may also call Healthline at 0800 611 116, and book a virtual, online consultation with a New Zealand-based provider at Healthinfo or Healthify. In an emergency, please dial 111 or go directly to your local hospital emergency department.
• Please find local healthcare services by visiting Healthpoint.
• Remember to take these necessary precautions and care of yourselves and those around you. Have a Safe and Healthy summer!