Phase 2 of New Zealand's response to Omicron is about to begin, and it will bring a newer way the country deals with COVID-19.
Beginning at 11:59pm on Tuesday, it means isolation requirements will be reduced, confirmed cases will get a text instead of a call about their positive result, and critical workers can return negative tests to keep working. Cases will also have to do their own contact tracing, with the Government's efforts now switching to focusing on the vulnerable.
You will need to self-isolate from others when you:
- are positive for COVID-19
- live with a person who has COVID-19
- are identified as a close contact of someone who is positive for COVID-19
- have returned from overseas
But what can and can't you do when self-isolating once these new rules come in?
What to do if you need to self-isolate
If you have COVID-19, you need to isolate for 10 days. If you live with someone who is infected, you also need to isolate for the same period but you have to get tested on days three and eight. If these are negative, the whole house can complete isolation at the same time.
On the Government's COVID-19 website, it advises that you must stay at your house or accommodation the entire time you're in isolation. This means you can't go to work, school, or any public places, and any exercise must be done in your home or garden.
You should get friends or family to drop off any food, prescriptions, or essential items you need, or get supplies delivered since you can't leave home.
If you live with other people, limit your contact with them. For example, you should sleep by yourself and limit the time you spend in shared spaces. If you can't do this, then you need to stay at least two metres apart and wear a face mask when you're near others.
All surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected regularly, including high-touch points like door handles, light switches, and phones.
Opening windows to increase fresh airflow inside is also recommended, since COVID-19 spreads in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces.
What not to do
You can't have visitors over, except if someone is providing you or someone in your house with essential care.
As mentioned above, you can't leave home during your isolation period unless you are seeking urgent medical care.
If you have a vaccine appointment scheduled during your self-isolation period, you aren't allowed to go to it so it will need to be rescheduled. You can do this by calling the booking line or going online to change your appointment.
If you live with other people, try not to share items with them like dishes, toothbrushes, or towels. You should also do your own laundry.
