COVID-19: New wave could last until Christmas
COVID-19 cases started to spike again last month, with hospitalizations creeping back up towards levels seen at the beginning of the year. Health officials are now warning that the new wave of the virus may persist until Christmas, urging at-risk individuals to book a COVID-19 booster shot ahead of the holidays.
Te Whatu Ora director of public health, Nicholas Jones, expressed concern that summer social gatherings could further increase infections, putting vulnerable populations at risk. Wastewater analysis still shows elevated levels of the virus, indicating that the surge is likely to continue. Dr. Jones emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures and getting vaccinated.
The booster shot is being recommended for individuals aged 65 or over, Māori and Pacific people aged 50 and older, the immunocompromised, and pregnant women. Reminders have already been sent to those over 75, and the campaign is now being extended to include other eligible groups.
These groups are recommended to have a summer 2023-24 booster irrespective of the number of previous doses they’ve had, so long as they have completed the initial two doses and it’s been more than six months since their last booster or COVID-19 infection, explained Dr. Jones.
In the latest update on Monday, there were 27 deaths attributed to the virus, along with 7,880 new cases. To combat the ongoing threat, Medsafe is currently reviewing new versions of two COVID-19 vaccines – Pfizer and Novovax. These updates cover the XBB 1.5 strain of the Omicron variant, which dominated during the winter months.
As the holiday season approaches, health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to reduce the spread of the virus. It is crucial to get vaccinated and follow public health guidelines, including mask-wearing, maintaining social distance, and practicing good hand hygiene.
The new wave of COVID-19 serves as a reminder that the virus is still a significant threat and can quickly escalate if preventive measures are not taken seriously. By prioritizing public health and engaging in responsible behaviors, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones during these challenging times.
Remember, booking a COVID-19 booster shot before Christmas is highly recommended for those at risk. Let’s come together as a community to limit the impact of the virus and ensure a safer festive season for all.
