17 Aug 2021

Covid-19 community case in Auckland: Govt making plan

From Checkpoint, 5:07 pm on 17 August 2021

Covid-19 is back in the community. What happens now?

Health officials have confirmed a positive case of the virus early this afternoon.

It's in Auckland but so far there is no link between the infected person and the border or managed isolation facilities.

The contact tracing process has swung into action, with the person being interviewed about where they have been. Ministers are meeting, with an update expected soon.

But last week the Covid-19 Response Minister indicated if a Delta case was discovered in the community, expect a short, sharp lockdown.

This afternoon the Ministry of health also reiterated a "hard and early" response is the best tool to stamp out any potential spread.

Stay at home if you are sick. Call a doctor or Healthline for advice about testing.

Social distancing is back. Keep two metres away from people or wear a mask if that's not possible.

And wear a mask public transport. Keep scanning and washing your hands.

RNZ deputy political editor Craig McCulloch joins us from our Parliament office.